In addition to wheel throwing, Alex will share approaches to surface design and glazing, drawing from their distinctive use of layered patterns, color, and graphic decoration. Students will explore how surface and form work together to create dynamic, thoughtful pottery while developing a deeper understanding of the ceramic process from wet clay to finished piece. Whether you're new to the wheel or looking to expand your skills, this class offers a supportive environment for learning, experimentation, and creative growth.

All levels are welcome. You must be 15+ years of age to participate. This class is a great fit for those wanting to grow their skills with an instructor present to ask questions. There is a 15” maximum size, in any direction, when creating with clay at RCC.

Materials: Clay is $40 for new clay or at times we have recycled clay for sale for $20. This is a separate purchase from your class fee. Purchase clay ahead of time HERE.

Bring an apron, comfy clothes, a quart-sized container (like a yogurt container), and a beginner's set of tools to the first class.

Special Materials: Any specialty carving tools you already have and want to try out AND/OR these starter Carving tools from amazon. If you want to splurge, this is the set Alice uses: diamond core carving set

Tool kits are available for purchase online or at Seattle Pottery Supply or Clay Art Center. Or here is another option on Amazon. The class fee includes all glazing materials, firings, and generous open-studio access for practice time.

About Alex Maldonado (they/them):
Alex is a Texas-born ceramic artist currently residing in Seattle, Washington. Their journey in clay began in 2021, as they were deep in the throes of COVID and looking for something to take the edge off. After a major life event, they began picking up part-time work at the same studio where they began their clay journey, setting off a chain of events that brought them here to Seattle, where they teach and have worked as a studio tech at several studios around town. When they’re not in the studio, you can usually find Alex riding their ebike around town or experimenting in the kitchen.

I primarily make wheel-thrown functional ware with an emphasis on texture that is visually engaging as well as tactile, often using wax resist to create patterns on top of marbled clay. I’ve recently been experimenting with soda firing, which adds an element of unpredictability to my work. Though I cover a wide range of aesthetics across my body of work, the one thing they all have in common is that form, function, and texture remain at the forefront of my pieces.

Prepare for Class

• Full information on how to prepare for classes is available on our Clay Q&A Platform (Links below).

• Tools: Suggested tools are in the image on this class page.

• Clay: Purchase clay separately through our communication platform (Links below)

• Studio Access: Weekly Classes come with access to studio practice hours.

• FAQ’s about classes: https://raincityclay.com/education-faq

RCC Communication Platform

• Join Clay Q&A Here.

• Our studio communication platform, The Clay Q&A “Space”, is hosted on the Mighty Networks App.

• Participation is required to take classes at RCC or have a membership at RCS.

• Clay Q&A is essential to participants. It is where participants may:

  • Buy Clay

  • Schedule practice time

  • Learn about kiln deadlines/ kiln unloadings

  • Hear studio news & events

• Learn more/ download the More about the Mighty Networks App, or text the Mighty Network App to your Phone.
  
  This app can be used on a desktop or mobile device. This app is essential for purchasing clay during the session, scheduling practice hours, and keeping up to date with studio deadlines for kilns and finishing your art projects at RCC.

Studio Policies and Information

Registration Policies: Information on being prepared for class, refunds, and more.

Hold Harmless Agreement: View what you agree to when registering for a class.

Code of Conduct: Expectations of studio conduct for students, staff, and instructors, as well as ways to give feedback anonymously.