Mankato Area Public Schools

Youth will learn handbuilding techniques while creating imaginative functional and sculptural clay projects, finished with colorful, personalized glazes.

Session 1: In this fun and creative youth ceramics handbuilding class, students will learn how to build with clay using slab construction techniques while creating their own unique ceramic treasures! Young artists will design and build a decorative cake box with a lid, perfect for storing keepsakes or treats, along with a whimsical mushroom house or spooky haunted house sculpture. Students will explore texture, shaping, and assembly while developing foundational ceramic skills in a supportive studio environment. Students will paint and personalize their creations with colorful glazes to make each project truly one-of-a-kind.

Session 2: In this imaginative youth handbuilding ceramics class, students will create two exciting clay projects: a handmade mug and a dragon’s eye sculpture. Young artists will learn basic handbuilding techniques such as shaping, attaching, and adding texture while designing a functional mug full of personality. They will also create a detailed dragon’s eye piece inspired by fantasy and mythical creatures, exploring texture, scales, and creative surface design. After firing, students will glaze and paint their creations to make them truly unique. Perfect for beginners and returning clay artists alike!