Beginning students will learn essential throwing techniques including centering, pulling walls, trimming, and creating functional forms, while more experienced potters will focus on refining their skills, improving consistency, and developing greater control on the wheel. Through demonstrations, practice, and individualized instruction, Dax encourages students to slow down, observe closely, and build confidence through repetition and intentional making.

As a special component of the class, each participant will receive a small share in a soda firing at our sister studio, Rat City Studios (up to 6" × 6" × 12", approximately ¼ of a clay box). Students will glaze their selected pieces at Rain City Clay using a curated selection of soda-friendly glazes before the work is fired together in the atmospheric kiln. Soda firing is one of Dax's passions, and this opportunity offers students a chance to experience the rich surfaces and unique character that atmospheric firing can bring to functional pottery.

Whether you are learning the basics for the first time or strengthening an established practice, this class offers a supportive environment to develop stronger forms, better technique, and a lasting appreciation for well-made pottery—while getting a taste of the magic of the soda kiln.

Recommended for those with one or more throwing classes. 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 Dax Joubert-Bousson (they/them):
Dax Joubert-Bousson grew up in the mountains of France before immigrating with their family to Wyoming in 2009. Although they initially pursued a degree in neuroscience, their passion for making emerged through fiber arts, where they developed an appreciation for the entire creative process—from raw materials to finished objects. After moving to Washington in 2018, Dax discovered clay through community studio classes and later deepened their commitment to ceramics while living in New Zealand. Now based in West Seattle, Dax is a member and studio technician at Rain and Rat City Studios, where they continue to explore functional pottery and share their love of thoughtful, process-driven craft.

Artist Statement
My work is rooted in a fascination with ancient objects, traditions, and ways of making. Drawing inspiration from historical ceramic vessels and the potters who came before us, I create forms that feel timeless—objects that seem both discovered and familiar. Functional and ritual forms, particularly pouring vessels, inform my practice, where I explore the relationship between object, user, and the stories embedded within material culture.

Using a combination of wheel throwing and handbuilding, I create functional pottery with a sculptural presence. Atmospheric firings, especially soda firing, play a central role in my work, allowing fire and natural processes to leave their mark on each piece. Through weathered surfaces, visible touch, and earth-toned palettes, I aim to create objects that foster connection—to history, to the handmade, and to the rituals of everyday life.

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.