Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Ceramics Studio in Seattle
Pottery Northwest has been a cornerstone of ceramic arts education and community building in Seattle since 1966. As a nonprofit organization, we prioritize accessibility and inclusivity, offering programs that cater to individuals of all skill levels and socioeconomic backgrounds. Our mission extends beyond technical instructionwe cultivate a welcoming environment where creativity flourishes and personal growth is nurtured. Through need-based scholarships, including a dedicated BIPOC fund, we have eliminated financial barriers for thousands of students, awarding over $103,000 in support in 2024 alone.Our Visiting Artist Program connects local clay enthusiasts with nationally recognized ceramicists, fostering innovation through workshops and exhibitions. The Studio Apprenticeship Program provides hands-on training in studio management, preparing participants for careers in ceramics education and professional practice. With a commitment to evolving alongside our community, we are expanding into a state-of-the-art facility in South Lake Union, designed to enhance accessibility and sustainability while maintaining our core values of artistic excellence and community engagement.
Services
Pottery classes
Studio access
Artist workshops
Scholarship programs
Community events
Details
- Year established: 1966
Highlights and features
- We offer need-based scholarships and BIPOC community funding since 1966
- Our Visiting Artist Program connects students with national ceramic experts
- Studio Apprenticeship Program provides hands-on professional training
- Artist Market Subsidy reduces financial barriers for emerging creators
- New ADA-compliant South Lake Union facility opens in 2026
Services
Pottery Classes
Our 10-week pottery classes accommodate adults of all skill levels, covering handbuilding, wheel throwing, and glazing techniques. Seasonal offerings include specialized workshops and 'Clay Nights' for beginners. All students receive technical guidance and studio access to develop their creative projects.
Studio Access
Designed for experienced ceramic artists, this membership program provides quarterly access to our fully equipped studio. Members benefit from flexible work hours, storage solutions, and the opportunity to refine their techniques in a professional environment with peer support.
Visiting Artist Program
This program brings nationally recognized ceramicists to Seattle for workshops, gallery talks, and exhibitions. Participants gain unique learning opportunities from industry leaders while engaging in creative exchanges that elevate regional ceramic arts discourse and innovation.
Studio Apprenticeship
Our year-long apprenticeship offers comprehensive training in studio management and technical operations. Apprentices receive hands-on experience in kiln maintenance, glaze formulation, and studio organization while developing their personal ceramic practice through dedicated studio time.
Artist Market Subsidy
This initiative provides financial assistance to emerging ceramic artists participating in craft fairs and markets. Qualified applicants receive reimbursement for booth fees and equipment rentals, helping new artists establish their professional presence in the ceramics community.
Questions
What types of pottery classes do you offer?
We provide 10-week adult classes covering handbuilding, wheel throwing, and glazing techniques. Specialized workshops and introductory 'Clay Nights' sessions are also available for all skill levels.
Where is your studio located?
Our current studio is at 220 3rd Ave S, Lower Level, Seattle, WA 98104. We're relocating to a new South Lake Union facility at 2250 7th Avenue in 2026.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes, we provide need-based scholarships, BIPOC community funding, and artist market subsidies. In 2024, we awarded over $103,000 in financial support to ceramic artists.
How can I participate in exhibitions?
Emerging artists can apply for our Visiting Artist Program or submit work through our annual Artist Market. Apprenticeship participants also gain exhibition opportunities through our gallery partnerships.
What community programs do you provide?
We host artist talks, gallery receptions, and community discussions. Our initiatives include youth outreach, volunteer opportunities, and partnerships with local organizations to expand ceramic arts access.
Reviews (2)
James Meline
May 07, 2021
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Love this place. Excellent Covid Policy that makes me feel safe. Great community for any artist interested in clay.
Fantastic people down here.
Fantastic people down here.
Jenna
Oct 28, 2019
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Don't let the Key Arena construction scare you away, Pottery Northwest is definitely open! Whether your looking to buy ceramics, learn to make ceramics or want to launch a career in ceramics this is the place to go.
