Canton POS

Ceramics

Fundamentals of Slab Building (Fall)

All Skill Levels

Begins 09/04/2026, Ends 12/04/2026, no class 11/13/2026,11/20/2026 - Register

*deadline to register: 09/02/2026

12 Fridays, 02:00 PM-04:00 PM

Room 103

Instructor: Susan Mentrak

NEW! Fundamentals of Slab Building with Susan Mentrak | 2–4p | 12 Fridays: September 4-25; October 2-30; November 6, 27 & December 4 *No class 11/13 or 11/20

Discover the unlimited possibilities of clay, perfect for beginners and advanced makers alike, as you practice handbuilding fundamentals through engaging, instructor-led demonstrations and set parameters.This course is defined by fun, creativity, and challenging yourself to tackle three distinct prompts: press plates exploring rich texture and surface decoration, a bowl to personalize through altering or sculpting, and an unconventional butter dish balancing function with inventiveness. Without ever needing a wheel, students will discover how slab construction techniques can be used to create beautiful pottery. Come expand your technical boundaries and express your unique style in a supportive, inspiring environment! Ages 16+

Member $218 | $261 8 seats available Important Information for All Ceramics Students

Clay Policy: All ceramics students at CMA are strictly required to purchase and use approved clay directly from the museum, with absolutely no exceptions. Because different clay bodies fire at varying temperatures, they cannot be reconstituted or mixed together. During check-in at the front desk on the first day of class, 25 lbs of clay can be purchased for $54. Although more clay can be bought afterward, there is a strict limit of 50 lbs of clay per session to manage the volume of student work produced.

Hours & Availability: Open studio time runs concurrently with the museum's seasonal class schedule. Access is limited to the dates listed above; studio time is unavailable outside these dates or when classes are not in session.

Tools: While students at CMA are welcome to bring and use their own clay tools, tool kits are also available for purchase starting on the first day of class for $15, while supplies last throughout each session.

Usage Restrictions: Our studio is a teaching facility designed for developing personal artistic style and technique; it is not a production lab for mass-market goods. Therefore, kiln use is strictly reserved for supporting your personal creative practice, and the production of items for commercial sale or mass distribution is prohibited.

Size Limitations: Please consult with your instructor regarding size restrictions. Because our kiln capacity is limited, we must prioritize efficient loading to serve all students. Oversized pieces take up disproportionate space and can crowd out work from others, disrupting our firing queue. By keeping projects within recommended dimensions, you help us maximize our kiln’s capacity, ensure efficient firing cycles, and provide timely results for the entire class.

Canton Ceramic Artists Guild (CCAG): The CCAG affiliate group partners with the Education Director and the Ceramics Studio Production Manager to maintain our studio environment. Members provide instruction, oversee studio assistants via a volunteer technician, and curate our glaze inventory using raw chemical supplies. In exchange for firing privileges and dedicated open studio time, CCAG members assist with operations and participate in annual museum events, where they sell their wares and educate the community on the art of ceramics.

Cost: $261.00 per person (Cost for Members: $218.00)

Beginner Wheel Throwing (Fall)

All Skill Levels

Begins 10/07/2026, Ends 12/16/2026, no class 11/25/26 - Register

*deadline to register: 10/05/2026

10 Wednesdays, 01:00 PM-04:00 PM

Room 104

Instructor: Echo Iris Davis

Beginner Wheel Throwing Series with Echo Iris Davis | 1–4p | 10 Wednesdays: October 7–December 16 (excluding November 25)

Students are not required to have pre-existing wheel throwing experience in this structured 10-week, small-group ceramics course. With the support of demonstrations and constructive feedback from the instructor, students will focus on form and function while creating functional ware like cups and bowls. Students will also be introduced to surface design techniques and beginner glaze application. This class is a precursor to a more advanced wheel throwing class. Ages 16+

Member $225 | $280 7 seats available

Important Information for All Ceramics Students Clay Policy: All ceramics students at CMA are strictly required to purchase and use approved clay directly from the museum, with absolutely no exceptions. Because different clay bodies fire at varying temperatures, they cannot be reconstituted or mixed together. During check-in at the front desk on the first day of class, 25 lbs of clay can be purchased for $54. Although more clay can be bought afterward, there is a strict limit of 50 lbs of clay per session to manage the volume of student work produced.

Hours & Availability: Open studio time runs concurrently with the museum's seasonal class schedule. Access is limited to the dates listed above; studio time is unavailable outside these dates or when classes are not in session.

Tools: While students at CMA are welcome to bring and use their own clay tools, tool kits are also available for purchase starting on the first day of class for $15, while supplies last throughout each session.

Usage Restrictions: Our studio is a teaching facility designed for developing personal artistic style and technique; it is not a production lab for mass-market goods. Therefore, kiln use is strictly reserved for supporting your personal creative practice, and the production of items for commercial sale or mass distribution is prohibited.

Size Limitations: Please consult with your instructor regarding size restrictions. Because our kiln capacity is limited, we must prioritize efficient loading to serve all students. Oversized pieces take up disproportionate space and can crowd out work from others, disrupting our firing queue. By keeping projects within recommended dimensions, you help us maximize our kiln’s capacity, ensure efficient firing cycles, and provide timely results for the entire class.

Canton Ceramic Artists Guild (CCAG): The CCAG affiliate group partners with the Education Director and the Ceramics Studio Production Manager to maintain our studio environment. Members provide instruction, oversee studio assistants via a volunteer technician, and curate our glaze inventory using raw chemical supplies. In exchange for firing privileges and dedicated open studio time, CCAG members assist with operations and participate in annual museum events, where they sell their wares and educate the community on the art of ceramics.

Cost: $280.00 per person (Cost for Members: $225.00)

Ceramics Independent Study (Winter)

Advanced - Prerequisite: 4 CMA Ceramics classes or more - including wheel throwing

Begins 01/05/2027, Ends 03/09/2027 - Register

*deadline to register: 01/04/2027

10 Tuesdays, 10:00 AM-05:00 PM

Room 104

Instructor: Sarah DeBaun

Independent Study of Ceramics

Ceramics Independent Study with Sarah DeBaun | Open Studio Days/Times Vary | 10 weeks; Tuesday, January 5-March 9
Independent Study is available to a limited number of advanced students who have completed at least four ceramics classes at the CMA (including wheel throwing) and do not require direct instruction. Ages 18+
Member $130 | $155 10 seats available

Independent Study Terms:
Studio Access: Your tuition covers access to the studio during open hours (fluctuating between 70Ð100 hours/month on average), a storage locker, use of studio equipment, and mentorship from a professional teaching artist during set times.
Hours & Availability: Open studio time runs concurrently with the museum's seasonal class schedule. Access is limited to the dates listed above; studio time is unavailable outside these dates or when classes are not in session.
Requirements: Students are required to assist in maintaining the studio space. Due to specific equipment and safety procedures, this program is restricted to students who have completed their prerequisites at the CMA; experience from other institutions does not qualify.
Support: Please direct class-related questions to your supervising instructor, Sarah DeBaun. For non-class inquiries, please contact the CMA Education Director, Amanda Crowe amanda@cantonart.org. Important Information for All Ceramics Students
Clay Policy: All ceramics students at CMA are strictly required to purchase and use approved clay directly from the museum, with absolutely no exceptions. Because different clay bodies fire at varying temperatures, they cannot be reconstituted or mixed together. During check-in at the front desk on the first day of class, 25 lbs of clay can be purchased for $54. Although more clay can be bought afterward, there is a strict limit of 50 lbs of clay per session to manage the volume of student work produced.
Hours & Availability: Open studio time runs concurrently with the museum's seasonal class schedule. Access is limited to the dates listed above; studio time is unavailable outside these dates or when classes are not in session.
Tools: While students at CMA are welcome to bring and use their own clay tools, tool kits are also available for purchase starting on the first day of class for $15, while supplies last throughout each session.
Usage Restrictions: Our studio is a teaching facility designed for developing personal artistic style and technique; it is not a production lab for mass-market goods. Therefore, kiln use is strictly reserved for supporting your personal creative practice, and the production of items for commercial sale or mass distribution is prohibited.
Size Limitations: Please consult with your instructor regarding size restrictions. Because our kiln capacity is limited, we must prioritize efficient loading to serve all students. Oversized pieces take up disproportionate space and can crowd out work from others, disrupting our firing queue. By keeping projects within recommended dimensions, you help us maximize our kilnÕs capacity, ensure efficient firing cycles, and provide timely results for the entire class.
Canton Ceramic Artists Guild (CCAG): The CCAG affiliate group partners with the Education Director and the Ceramics Studio Production Manager to maintain our studio environment. Members provide instruction, oversee studio assistants via a volunteer technician, and curate our glaze inventory using raw chemical supplies. In exchange for firing privileges and dedicated open studio time, CCAG members assist with operations and participate in annual museum events, where they sell their wares and educate the community on the art of ceramics.

Cost: $155.00 per person (Cost for Members: $130.00)

Advanced Ceramics with Bill Shearrow 6:30pm Tuesdays (Winter)

Advanced - Prerequisite: 4 or more CMA Ceramics Classes or Instructor Approval

Begins 01/05/2027, Ends 03/09/2027 - Register

*deadline to register: 01/04/2027

10 Tuesdays, 06:30 PM-08:30 PM

Room 104

Instructor: Bill Shearrow

Advanced Ceramics with Bill Shearrow
Form, surface design, glazing, and firing are explored in greater depth during this class. Designed for advanced students, with a prerequisite of four ceramics classes completed at CMA, or instructor approval. Students who have taken five or more CMA ceramics classes, or individuals deemed to be working at an apprentice level are required to complete their own firing in cooperation with the Canton Ceramic Artists Guild to deepen their understanding of the process. Students registered for Advanced Ceramics are also entitled to utilize open studio hours throughout the 10-week class session. Ages 18+
Member $225 | $280 12 seats available

Important Information for All Ceramics Students:
Clay Policy: All ceramics students at CMA are strictly required to purchase and use approved clay directly from the museum, with absolutely no exceptions. Because different clay bodies fire at varying temperatures, they cannot be reconstituted or mixed together. During check-in at the front desk on the first day of class, 25 lbs of clay can be purchased for $54. Although more clay can be bought afterward, there is a strict limit of 50 lbs of clay per session to manage the volume of student work produced.

Hours & Availability: Open studio time runs concurrently with the museum's seasonal class schedule. Access is limited to the dates listed above; studio time is unavailable outside these dates or when classes are not in session.
Tools: While students at CMA are welcome to bring and use their own clay tools, tool kits are also available for purchase starting on the first day of class for $15, while supplies last throughout each session.

Usage Restrictions: Our studio is a teaching facility designed for developing personal artistic style and technique; it is not a production lab for mass-market goods. Therefore, kiln use is strictly reserved for supporting your personal creative practice, and the production of items for commercial sale or mass distribution is prohibited.

Size Limitations: Please consult with your instructor regarding size restrictions. Because our kiln capacity is limited, we must prioritize efficient loading to serve all students. Oversized pieces take up disproportionate space and can crowd out work from others, disrupting our firing queue. By keeping projects within recommended dimensions, you help us maximize our kilnÕs capacity, ensure efficient firing cycles, and provide timely results for the entire class.

Canton Ceramic Artists Guild (CCAG): The CCAG affiliate group partners with the Education Director and the Ceramics Studio Production Manager to maintain our studio environment. Members provide instruction, oversee studio assistants via a volunteer technician, and curate our glaze inventory using raw chemical supplies. In exchange for firing privileges and dedicated open studio time, CCAG members assist with operations and participate in annual museum events, where they sell their wares and educate the community on the art of ceramics.

Cost: $280.00 per person (Cost for Members: $225.00)

Classic Ceramics with Tyler Mashek 6:30pm Wednesdays (Winter)

All Skill Levels

Begins 01/06/2027, Ends 03/10/2027 - Register

*deadline to register: 01/05/2027

10 Wednesdays, 06:30 PM-08:30 PM

Room 104

Instructor: Tyler Mashek

Classic Ceramics with Tyler Mashek
Discover the ceramic process from start to finish through instructor-led demonstrations, glazing techniques, and constructive feedback. Beginner students learn the basics of hand-building and wheel-work while intermediate students refine their skills. Individual projects include functional pottery and decorative work. Students registered for Classic Ceramics are also entitled to utilize open studio hours throughout the 10-week class session. Ages 16+
Member $215 | $258 8 seats available

Important Information for All Ceramics Students:
Clay Policy: All ceramics students at CMA are strictly required to purchase and use approved clay directly from the museum, with absolutely no exceptions. Because different clay bodies fire at varying temperatures, they cannot be reconstituted or mixed together. During check-in at the front desk on the first day of class, 25 lbs of clay can be purchased for $54. Although more clay can be bought afterward, there is a strict limit of 50 lbs of clay per session to manage the volume of student work produced.

Hours & Availability: Open studio time runs concurrently with the museum's seasonal class schedule. Access is limited to the dates listed above; studio time is unavailable outside these dates or when classes are not in session.
Tools: While students at CMA are welcome to bring and use their own clay tools, tool kits are also available for purchase starting on the first day of class for $15, while supplies last throughout each session.

Usage Restrictions: Our studio is a teaching facility designed for developing personal artistic style and technique; it is not a production lab for mass-market goods. Therefore, kiln use is strictly reserved for supporting your personal creative practice, and the production of items for commercial sale or mass distribution is prohibited.

Size Limitations: Please consult with your instructor regarding size restrictions. Because our kiln capacity is limited, we must prioritize efficient loading to serve all students. Oversized pieces take up disproportionate space and can crowd out work from others, disrupting our firing queue. By keeping projects within recommended dimensions, you help us maximize our kiln's capacity, ensure efficient firing cycles, and provide timely results for the entire class.

Canton Ceramic Artists Guild (CCAG): The CCAG affiliate group partners with the Education Director and the Ceramics Studio Production Manager to maintain our studio environment. Members provide instruction, oversee studio assistants via a volunteer technician, and curate our glaze inventory using raw chemical supplies. In exchange for firing privileges and dedicated open studio time, CCAG members assist with operations and participate in annual museum events, where they sell their wares and educate the community on the art of ceramics.

Cost: $258.00 per person (Cost for Members: $215.00)

Advanced Ceramics with Sarah DeBaun 3:30pm Thursdays (Winter)

Advanced

Begins 01/07/2027, Ends 03/11/2027 - Register

*deadline to register: 01/06/2027

10 Thursdays, 03:30 PM-05:30 PM

Room 104

Instructor: Sarah DeBaun

Advanced Ceramics with Sarah DeBaun
Form, surface design, glazing, and firing are explored in greater depth during this class. Designed for advanced students, with a prerequisite of four ceramics classes completed at CMA, or instructor approval. Students who have taken five or more CMA ceramics classes, or individuals deemed to be working at an apprentice level are required to complete their own firing in cooperation with the Canton Ceramic Artists Guild to deepen their understanding of the process. Students registered for Advanced Ceramics are also entitled to utilize open studio hours throughout the 10-week class session. Ages 18+
Member $225 | $280 12 seats available Important Information for All Ceramics Students
Clay Policy: All ceramics students at CMA are strictly required to purchase and use approved clay directly from the museum, with absolutely no exceptions. Because different clay bodies fire at varying temperatures, they cannot be reconstituted or mixed together. During check-in at the front desk on the first day of class, 25 lbs of clay can be purchased for $54. Although more clay can be bought afterward, there is a strict limit of 50 lbs of clay per session to manage the volume of student work produced.
Hours & Availability: Open studio time runs concurrently with the museum's seasonal class schedule. Access is limited to the dates listed above; studio time is unavailable outside these dates or when classes are not in session.
Tools: While students at CMA are welcome to bring and use their own clay tools, tool kits are also available for purchase starting on the first day of class for $15, while supplies last throughout each session.
Usage Restrictions: Our studio is a teaching facility designed for developing personal artistic style and technique; it is not a production lab for mass-market goods. Therefore, kiln use is strictly reserved for supporting your personal creative practice, and the production of items for commercial sale or mass distribution is prohibited.
Size Limitations: Please consult with your instructor regarding size restrictions. Because our kiln capacity is limited, we must prioritize efficient loading to serve all students. Oversized pieces take up disproportionate space and can crowd out work from others, disrupting our firing queue. By keeping projects within recommended dimensions, you help us maximize our kilnÕs capacity, ensure efficient firing cycles, and provide timely results for the entire class.
Canton Ceramic Artists Guild (CCAG): The CCAG affiliate group partners with the Education Director and the Ceramics Studio Production Manager to maintain our studio environment. Members provide instruction, oversee studio assistants via a volunteer technician, and curate our glaze inventory using raw chemical supplies. In exchange for firing privileges and dedicated open studio time, CCAG members assist with operations and participate in annual museum events, where they sell their wares and educate the community on the art of ceramics.

Cost: $280.00 per person (Cost for Members: $225.00)

Evening Guided Ceramics Makerspace with Susan Mentrak (Winter)

All Skill Levels

Begins 01/07/2027, Ends 03/11/2027 - Register

*deadline to register: 01/06/2027

10 Thursdays, 06:00 PM-08:00 PM

Room 103

Instructor: Susan Mentrak

Enhance your artistic skills in this collaborative hand-building Makerspace. Guided by teaching-artist, Susan Mentrak, this open studio format provides personalized mentorship throughout the 10-week session. Please note that pottery wheels are unavailable during Makerspace hours. Registration includes open studio access outside of class to work on multi-step projects, glaze, use hand-building specific equipment/tools, and complete the drying and firing process. Ages 16+

Cost: $192.00 per person (Cost for Members: $160.00)

Classic Ceramics with Sarah DeBaun 6:30pm Thursdays (Winter)

All Skill Levels

Begins 01/07/2027, Ends 03/11/2027 - Register

*deadline to register: 01/06/2027

10 Thursdays, 06:30 PM-08:30 PM

Room 104

Instructor: Sarah DeBaun

Classic Ceramics with Sarah DeBaun
Discover the ceramic process from start to finish through instructor-led demonstrations, glazing techniques, and constructive feedback. Beginner students learn the basics of hand-building and wheel-work while intermediate students refine their skills. Individual projects include functional pottery and decorative work. Students registered for Classic Ceramics are also entitled to utilize open studio hours throughout the 10-week class session. Ages 16+
Member $225 | $280 12 seats available

Important Information for All Ceramics Students:
Clay Policy: All ceramics students at CMA are strictly required to purchase and use approved clay directly from the museum, with absolutely no exceptions. Because different clay bodies fire at varying temperatures, they cannot be reconstituted or mixed together. During check-in at the front desk on the first day of class, 25 lbs of clay can be purchased for $54. Although more clay can be bought afterward, there is a strict limit of 50 lbs of clay per session to manage the volume of student work produced.

Hours & Availability: Open studio time runs concurrently with the museum's seasonal class schedule. Access is limited to the dates listed above; studio time is unavailable outside these dates or when classes are not in session.
Tools: While students at CMA are welcome to bring and use their own clay tools, tool kits are also available for purchase starting on the first day of class for $15, while supplies last throughout each session.

Usage Restrictions: Our studio is a teaching facility designed for developing personal artistic style and technique; it is not a production lab for mass-market goods. Therefore, kiln use is strictly reserved for supporting your personal creative practice, and the production of items for commercial sale or mass distribution is prohibited.

Size Limitations: Please consult with your instructor regarding size restrictions. Because our kiln capacity is limited, we must prioritize efficient loading to serve all students. Oversized pieces take up disproportionate space and can crowd out work from others, disrupting our firing queue. By keeping projects within recommended dimensions, you help us maximize our kiln's capacity, ensure efficient firing cycles, and provide timely results for the entire class.

Canton Ceramic Artists Guild (CCAG): The CCAG affiliate group partners with the Education Director and the Ceramics Studio Production Manager to maintain our studio environment. Members provide instruction, oversee studio assistants via a volunteer technician, and curate our glaze inventory using raw chemical supplies. In exchange for firing privileges and dedicated open studio time, CCAG members assist with operations and participate in annual museum events, where they sell their wares and educate the community on the art of ceramics.

Cost: $280.00 per person (Cost for Members: $225.00)

NEW! Curious Clay Beasts: Hand-Building & Decorative Surfaces with Toni Billick (Winter)

All Skill Levels

Begins 01/09/2027, Ends 03/27/2027, no class 2/6/27 - Register

*deadline to register: 01/08/2027

10 Saturdays, 11:00 AM-02:00 PM

Room 103

Instructor:

Inspired by the exhibition Curious Beasts: A Ceramic Tale by Jennifer Rosseter, this class introduces students to ceramic hand-building through coiling and slab techniques. By combining these skills, students will construct both freestanding and hanging sculptural forms. They will also explore surface treatment and underglazing methods that enhance and complement their work. All skill levels are welcome. Ages 15+

Cost: $210.00 per person (Cost for Members: $175.00)

NEW! Ceramic Mushroom Hand-Building Workshop with Sarah DeBaun (Winter)

All Skill Levels

Begins 02/28/2027, Ends 02/28/2027 - Register

*deadline to register: 02/26/2027

1 Sunday, 02:00 PM-04:00 PM

Room 103

Instructor: Sarah DeBaun

Have a fondness for fungi? Join us in the studio to learn step-by-step instructions for hand building a mushroom-shaped vessel from clay. Designed for all experience levels, students will learn fundamental clay techniques including shaping and finishing. To take the guesswork out of glazing, the instructor will provide glaze selection options and finish the process for you after your work is bisque-fired, ensuring your piece is ready for pickup within three weeks of the class date. Tuition includes clay, glaze, and firing. Ages 15+
Member $38 | $45 20 seats available

Cost: $45.00 per person (Cost for Members: $38.00)