Description
Experience the meditative art of the pottery wheel in an intimate, semi-private setting designed for two people. Led by Heidi Graf—a ceramic artist with a unique background as a special effects prop builder for film and television—this course focuses on the fundamentals of wheel throwing: centering, opening, and pulling. Heidi will guide you through the process of transforming a simple lump of clay into functional vessels like mugs, bowls, and plates. In this small group environment, you will receive personalized, step-by-step instruction on the essentials, from wedging and centering to the technical art of finishing and glazing.
Heidi’s philosophy—that everyone is both a learner and a teacher—creates a high-energy, low-pressure studio space perfect for finding your creative “Eureka” moment. You will learn that mastering the wheel is a journey of repetition, persistence, and that embracing mistakes as a vital part of the creative process. All finished pieces will be twice-fired to be fully functional, microwave, and dishwasher safe. Come get your hands messy and find your rhythm at the wheel!
One block of clay included * additional clay available for purchase.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Class Calendar
Your Instructor
Heidi Graf
Heidi Graf is a Pickering-based potter and educator who believes that every student brings a unique perspective to the studio. A member of the Durham Potters Guild, Heidi’s creative background is as diverse as her work; she brings years of experience as a special effects prop builder for film and television, a professional in restaurant management, and a mother. These roles have shaped her into a patient, high-energy mentor who values technical “movie-magic” precision alongside the joy of “playing with mud.”
Specializing in functional forms and expert glazing, Heidi’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that everyone has something to teach. This June at Artbarn School, she invites students of all levels to master the wheel and hand building in a supportive environment where community and creativity go hand-in-hand.