New for 2026: Ceramics Open Studio Membership at Oliver Art Center!
Ready for more time at the wheel? Need extra studio time to work on your ceramic sculptures, functional pottery, or just to practice on the wheel? OAC has recently launched our pilot Ceramics Open Studio Membership program. Whether you’re currently enrolled in a class and need more work time or simply desire a space to work on personal projects, this monthly pass offers the flexibility you need to take your ceramics studies to the next level. Learn more about the program and how to apply at this link. Space is limited – we will review your application and accept new members based on availability. Open Studio Memberships are available to current Oliver Art Center members. Not a member? Learn more about membership at this link.
When is the Studio open?
Winter semester Open Studio access is available on the following schedule:
March 1st – March 15th:
Mondays 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Wednesdays 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Thursdays 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Sundays 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
March 16th – May 31st:
Mondays 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Tuesdays 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Thursdays 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Sundays 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Who is eligible?
Students who have completed at least one ceramics course at OAC in the last two years are eligible to apply for Open Studio Membership. Haven’t studied here before? We will also accept experienced potters for this program; just complete a brief orientation course with our Studio Manager first to learn about studio policies and maintenance. Memberships are limited to ensure a comfortable, uncrowded work environment. It is at the Studio’s discretion to accept members based on experience and space availability.
How much does it cost?
Open Studio Membership Passes are available for purchase in packs of ten or twenty hours. You can use the hours at your discretion and carry them over for 12 months from the date of purchase. A pack of ten hours is $90, and a pack of twenty hours is $165. Payment is required at the time of purchase, and your membership and studio access will start when payment is complete. If you are currently enrolled in a ceramics class, you are eligible for a 10% discount on a pack of ten hours. Please see the reception desk to receive your discount.
Only Studio clay is allowed – please, no outside work or clay. Studio clay bodies (currently white or buff stoneware or porcelain – others to come soon!) are sold in 12# or 25# bags and include use of all Studio glazes and bisque and cone 6 glaze firings. Larger pieces may require an additional fee. (The Studio Manager can discuss clay bodies, glazes, and firing options if you have questions or special requests.)
12# of clay/glaze/firing – $40
25# of clay/glaze/firing – $80
Extra half kiln shelf firing fee: $20
Policies:
This is a true Open Studio opportunity, so create your own work at your own pace. No instruction is provided. (Our Studio Manager can address questions or concerns, and will provide basic orientation to those new to the OAC Studio.) Studio Members are responsible for cleaning all tools and work areas and ensuring the floors and sinks are clean and free of debris before leaving the studio. There are limited first-come, first-served small lockers on site if you wish to keep some tools or glazes here.
Please remove finished work from the studio when firing is complete or when you cancel your membership, as storage is limited. Work left longer than 30 days will be considered abandoned.
What is Included?
Come and go as often as you like during any Open Studio shift. Only Studio Members are allowed access to the Studio during these times. Membership includes Studio access, a storage shelf, and kiln firings. (Kilns are loaded and fired by our Ceramics Studio Manager, A.C. Bell – Members do not have access to the kilns.)
Open Studio Members will have access to the OAC Ceramics Studio tools and equipment, including:
- 7 electric wheels
- 2 large worktables for hand-building or prep work
- A plaster wedging table
- Glazing workstations
- A slab roller
- A full complement of hand tools
- A range of Studio Glazes
- Coming soon: a clay extruder
How do I sign up?
If you are a current or former OAC Ceramics student or an experienced ceramic artist interested in joining our studio, please fill out the application form found at this link. It is at the studio’s discretion to accept members based on experience and space availability. We will reach out to you with additional instructions, studio policies, and a payment link if your application is successful!