About this Event
Wild Things: A Two-Part Clay Sculpture Class
Real, imagined, or somewhere in between. In this two-part sculpture class, we'll explore the animal kingdom and beyond, using clay to create creatures of our own design.
Think of it as bringing an illustration to life! Draw inspiration from nature, mythology, folklore, or your own imagination as we explore a more playful, stylized approach to sculpture. Exaggerated features, expressive faces, unusual proportions, and plenty of personality are all encouraged. Whether you're making an animal, insect, mythical beast, or something entirely invented, we'll use handbuilding techniques to turn your ideas into three-dimensional forms.
During our first session, we'll spend two hours building our sculptures from clay, exploring form, texture, and sculptural details. After they've dried and been bisque-fired, we'll meet again to add color, patterns, and personality using ceramic underglazes.
No previous sculpture experience is necessary. Whether you arrive with a fully formed idea or figure it out as you go, this class is an opportunity to experiment with clay and develop a creature that's entirely your own.
After our second session, sculptures will receive their final firing and be ready for pickup once the firing process is complete.
Class Dates
Fridays | November 13 & December 4, 2026
- Friday, November 13 | 6–8 PM: Sculpting & Handbuilding
- Friday, December 4 | 6–7:30 PM: Underglazing & Surface Decoration
We'll allow three weeks between sessions for sculptures to dry and go through their first firing.
Instructor: Caelin McDaniel
Cost: $100 per person (includes both sessions, clay, tools, underglazes, and kiln firings)
Open Studio Access
Students will have access to Open Studio in addition to their regularly scheduled class time while the class is in session.
- Wednesdays: 6–8 PM
- Saturdays: 12–2 PM
Open Studio is supervised, but instruction is provided during class time only.
Accessing the Studio
Erie ClaySpace is located on the third floor of the PACA building at 1505 State St., Erie, PA 16501.
The front doors to the building are locked. When you arrive, call (814) 520-5089, and your instructor will buzz you in.
Elevator Access: If you need to use the elevator, please let us know ahead of time at [email protected] so we can arrange assistance. Our elevator is manually operated and cannot be called with a button.
Class Policies
Classes require a minimum of 5 students to run. If Erie ClaySpace cancels a class, you'll have the option to transfer to a similar class or receive a full refund.
Refund requests must be made at least one week before the first class. Processing fees may apply.
We're unable to issue refunds for missed classes, but students are welcome to use Open Studio time to catch up and practice.
FAQs – We've Got You!
👶 Age Limit?
Must be 16+ to join. No alcohol for anyone under 21.
🏺 Do I Need Experience?
No experience needed! Beginners are welcome, and students with previous handbuilding or sculpting experience will have plenty of room to explore their own ideas.
🎨 What Will I Learn?
We'll explore handbuilding and sculpting techniques, including constructing three-dimensional forms, adding texture and details, and using ceramic underglazes to decorate your finished sculpture.
💸 Refunds?
Refund requests must be made at least one week before the first class. Processing fees may apply. We're unable to issue refunds for missed classes, but you're welcome to use Open Studio time to catch up and practice.
🧱 What's Included?
Both instructional sessions, clay, tools, underglazes, kiln firings, and access to Open Studio while the class is in session.
👐 What's Open Studio?
More clay time? Yes, please! Open Studio gives you extra time to work on class projects, practice new skills, or explore your own ideas. Join us Wednesdays from 6–8 PM or Saturdays from 12–2 PM. These are self-guided sessions rather than structured lessons, so you can work at your own pace and enjoy some creative studio time!
👕 What Should I Wear?
Wear comfy clothes you don't mind getting muddy! Keep your nails trimmed, tie back long hair, and skip the jewelry. Clay can get messy, so come ready to get your hands dirty!
🔥 When Will My Pieces Be Ready?
Ceramics take time! Your sculpture will need to dry completely before its first firing. After our second session, we'll complete the final firing and let you know when your work is ready.
💔 What If Something Breaks?
We handle every piece with care, but ceramics can be unpredictable. Occasionally, pieces crack or don't survive the firing process.
📦 When Do I Pick Up My Work?
Finished pieces are typically ready 2–4 weeks after the final class. Your instructor will provide pickup instructions, and reminder cards are given at the end of class.
📬 Still Have Questions?
We've got answers! Reach out anytime at [email protected].
Event venue & nearby stays
Erie ClaySpace, 1505 State Street, Erie, United States
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