Paper Clay Sculpture - Cabinet of Curiosities

Class Images (3).jpg
Screenshot 2026-06-24 at 4.32.56 PM.png
KCReynolds_BewareOfTheDog_greenware.jpg
KCReynolds_Chanterelk.jpg
KCReynolds_Chanterelk_Greenware.jpg
KyleReynolds.jpg
Toolbox.jpg (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)
Class Images (3).jpg
Screenshot 2026-06-24 at 4.32.56 PM.png
KCReynolds_BewareOfTheDog_greenware.jpg
KCReynolds_Chanterelk.jpg
KCReynolds_Chanterelk_Greenware.jpg
KyleReynolds.jpg
Toolbox.jpg (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)

Paper Clay Sculpture - Cabinet of Curiosities

$485.00

Instructor: Kyle Reynolds
Dates: Sept 16th-Nov 18th
Time: Wednesdays, 10:00am-1:00pm
Fees: $485 (does not include tools, clay, or sales tax)
Continuing Handbuilding

Bring your stories to life through imaginative sculpture and narrative form. Using paper clay—a lightweight ceramic material reinforced with paper fibers—you'll create either an animal sculpture or a human bust that becomes a vessel for storytelling.

Inspired by historical cabinets of curiosity, your piece will feature hidden compartments, secret drawers, small objects, and unexpected details that encourage viewers to look closer and discover layers of meaning. Through handbuilding, sculpting, and creative problem-solving, you'll explore how form, symbolism, and hidden elements can work together to tell a personal, fictional, or symbolic story.

Some clay handbuilding experience is helpful, as students should be comfortable with basic clay construction techniques. This workshop is ideal for makers interested in sculpture, narrative, mixed-media thinking, and pushing their clay work beyond functional forms.

Quantity:
13 available
Add To Cart

Throughout the class, Kyle will guide students through the complete creative process, from developing concepts and planning compositions to building, hollowing, mounting, and finishing their work. Along the way, students will learn practical strategies for solving sculptural challenges and bringing ambitious ideas to completion.

Rather than focusing on glaze, this course explores alternative surface treatments including oxides, underglazes, and layered cold finishes applied after firing. Sculptures will be single-fired to Cone 2, creating a durable yet porous surface ideal for post-firing color and patina. Through demonstrations, feedback, and group discussion, students will develop both technical skills and a deeper understanding of narrative in ceramic sculpture.


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:

- Water spray bottle 
- Suggested: prior to Class 1, gather a 'vision board' of images with the particular aesthetics you're drawn to

Special Finishes:

Choose 1 or 2 types of media on the list. Not needed for Class 1.

- Underglazes (suggested 2-3 colors) & raw carbonates or oxides 

- Watercolor, gouache & acrylic paints

- Clear matte ModPodge & collaging materials  

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 Kyle Reynolds (she/her):
Born in upstate New York, Kyle Reynolds is an emerging Seattle-based sculptor working primarily in porcelain and mixed media. Her work has won numerous awards, been featured in gallery exhibitions and art fairs, and acquired in private collections. She is a member of Washington Clay Arts Association and was selected for the 2025-2029 Washington State Arts Commission Public Arts Roster, the 2024-2026 Seattle Office of Arts & Culture Public Art Roster, and for a 2025 PLAYA Arts & Sciences awarded residency.

Artist Statement
My work explores allegorical narratives of human nature inspired by the Aesop’s Fables and Grimm’s Fairytales that fascinated me in my childhood. Their bizarre metaphoric warnings of consequence and moral conscience became the language through which I process philosophical issues, in my own surrealistic interpretation.

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.