The Potters’ Studio Community Support Group
In times of uncertainty, we look to community for stability. We are fortunate at The Potters’ Studio to have a large and diverse community that comes together around our shared love of clay. As a strong community, we can work and play together while honoring our differences. Group activities and one-on-one engagement provide opportunities to foster a positive environment in which to practice our craft — when we ask questions, share concerns, engage in conversation, and laugh together we can support each other.
As we approach the time for the Studio’s transition to its new location, we all have many questions and concerns. With this in mind, in 2024, a group of Members came together with the shared vision of strengthening connections among Studio Members, Staff, and Board and recognizing the diverse needs of our community. The TPS Community Support Group has now hosted several community gatherings. In fall 2024, we hosted an inaugural afternoon social gathering over food and drinks. We met new Members, enjoyed lively conversation, made new connections, and learned more about each other. We will continue to host these monthly gatherings going forward — keep an eye on your email for announcements!
Early in 2025, we hosted a Staff Appreciation Lunch, which was a big hit. It was a joy to see the Staff relaxing and enjoying each other’s company while indulging in the amazing food provided by our community. Our Staff is the backbone of our Studio and they individually and collectively are responsible for creating a safe and supportive environment where we can pursue our ceramic journey. Sharing a relaxing afternoon with Staff over great food was just one way our community could show our appreciation for their work.
Our group has also held several “sharing and critique” sessions that have grown in popularity and have been met with increased enthusiasm. At the first two meetings, nine people participated. Word spread through the Studio, and others became curious and decided to check us out. Through conversation among our group and with the Studio community, we’ve created an engaging, safe format for participants to discuss their work and receive constructive feedback around process, practice, and art. We look forward to continuing these gatherings regularly.
Recently we began a conversation around potential collaborations with Youth Spirit Artworks in Oakland, a nonprofit art organization for artists ages 16-25. We hope a connection with Youth Spirit may offer an opportunity to share scholarships and mentoring through the Maija Williams Scholarship Fund.
The Community Group continues to develop ideas to strengthen our community connection. We look forward to seeing you all around the Studio and hope you can join us for some of our activities and gatherings. Please also let us know if you have questions or an idea for the Community Support Group to pursue — feel free to contact any one of us: Laura Leaverton, Priscilla Hine, Sally Dinwoodie, Marissa Thompson, Maddie Page, Philomena Bradford, and Patti Hughes.
By Patti Hughes
