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Spend six afternoons learning handbuilding techniques with Karen Mendes at Artshop in Midland. Small groups, inclusive instruction, and clay provided make this an ideal creative crash course.
Spend six afternoons learning handbuilding techniques with Karen Mendes at Artshop in Midland. Small groups, inclusive instruction, and clay provided make this an ideal creative crash course.
Book with Creative 360
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Operated by Creative 360 · Midland, Michigan
On an ordinary Tuesday afternoon in Midland, Michigan, the Artshop studio at 5501 Jefferson Ave hums with focused conversation and the soft scratch of wet clay. Artshop Clay Handbuilding: Spring/Summer 2026 Session 1 is a six-week, instructor-led course designed for makers of all abilities. Led by Karen Mendes, this class guides up to eight students through handbuilding techniques—pinch, coil, and slab—over six sessions (Tuesdays, May 5, 12, 19, 26, June 2, 9) from 1:00 to 2:30 PM. The $125 fee covers clay and materials. What makes this program stand out in Midland’s arts scene is its emphasis on accessibility and steady skill-building in a small-group studio setting. The room’s worktables, hand tools, and access to kiln-fired finishes give you a practical laboratory for functional and decorative pottery. Instructors adapt exercises to fit a broad range of abilities; students who use Community Living Support (CLS) funds through Medicaid are encouraged to enroll and may use part of their CLS budget, though regular attendance is required for those students to avoid possible billing for missed sessions. The class is centered on handbuilding rather than wheel-throwing, so newcomers and those with mobility differences can produce objects with intention and control. Expect demonstrations, hands-on practice, time to refine forms, and drying and firing instructions—everything you need to complete usable pieces by session end. With a tight group size, individualized feedback is a fixture: you’ll leave not just with finished items but with techniques you can repeat at home. Practicalities are straightforward: meet at 5501 Jefferson Ave in Midland, and note that classes cancel when Midland Public Schools close for weather. Bring comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a little clay on; clay and tools are provided. The studio contributes to Midland’s creative ecosystem by offering arts education that reaches beyond hobbyists—this is a municipal program that supports community inclusion and local cultural life. Beyond the studio, Midland rewards a slower pace: stroll the nearby Riverwalk or visit the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio for architecture after class. Whether you aim to craft a simple set of mugs, a bowl with a deliberate texture, or a small sculptural piece, Artshop’s handbuilding session is a compact, practical immersion in clay that demystifies ceramic processes and makes craftsmanship approachable for anyone visiting or living in Midland. Students learn finishing techniques—sanding, burnishing, and basic glazing approaches—and the instructor covers safe kiln handling and labeling for pickup. Beginners appreciate the patient pace; returning students get projects that build on prior work. The workshop also acts as a social space where makers exchange ideas and local references, strengthening Midland’s arts network. Pre-registration is required due to the eight-student limit, so plan to reserve your spot early. Bring a snack.
easy.
1.5 hours.
Light: suitable for people comfortable sitting or standing for short periods and doing fine motor work
No—this handbuilding class is designed for beginners and returns; the instructor teaches foundational techniques.
Yes—Artshop emphasizes inclusivity and adapts exercises; students with Medicaid may use CLS funds toward participation.
The $125 session fee covers clay and materials used in class; glazing and firing are handled as part of the course.
Meet at 5501 Jefferson Ave in Midland for sessions on Tuesdays, May 5, 12, 19, 26, June 2, 9 from 1:00–2:30 PM.
If Midland Public Schools close, Artshop cancels classes that day—check local closures before traveling.
Class size is limited to eight students to ensure individualized instruction and safety around studio equipment.
Midland supports a long civic arts tradition and is home to the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio, an important local architectural landmark.
The studio promotes reuse and responsible clay waste practices; students are encouraged to minimize glaze waste and recycle trimming scraps when possible.
Creative 360 is a community-centered arts organization based in Midland, Michigan, offering a broad calendar of performances, classes, workshops, and volunteer opportunities. Dedicated to accessible arts education, Creative 360 runs inclusive semesters such as Artshop Clay and Artshop Painting Explorations that welcome participants of all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities. Small class sizes—typically limited to eight students for specialized hands-on art sessions—ensure personalized attention and skill development. Creative 360 presents recurring public performances including the free Sound Community Music Series held every second Wednesday, featuring classical and jazz artists like Trio Rubaton and electro-acoustic sets. The venue hosts visiting artists and special concerts such as the June performance by Michigan native Sarah Bomber. Seasonal programming includes a Summer Theatre Intensive for ages 11–17 where students audition, rehearse, and perform under a professional director, and short-term workshops like Sewing for Everyone focused on upcycling and practical skills. Community engagement is central to Creative 360’s mission: the organization operates volunteer programs that allow community members to support events and enjoy performances, and coordinates special events such as the inaugural Holiday Art Fair during Midland’s Holiday Arts Weekend. Additional offerings like Tai Chi 360 provide wellness-focused movement classes suitable for all levels. Creative 360 partners with local artists and instructors to maintain a varied, community-rooted schedule of arts experiences in Midland.
Book with Creative 360