There’s a certain timeless joy that comes with creation, with using your own two hands to render raw materials into a stunning work of art. It’s an impulse that has driven the artistic for millennia, stretching back to the dawn of mankind.
Today, that art form feels even more urgent. In a digital meta world, there’s something immensely satisfying about getting your hands dirty and molding a lump of clay until you’ve unleashed something amazing into the world.
“It’s a medium that a lot of people are intrigued by,” said Ginny Taylor, owner of Hilton Head Pottery with her husband Mark. Ginny first hung her shingle 10 years ago as Idea Studio, with classes on everything from acrylics and watercolor to stained glass. As the years went on, it became clear that their various classes revolving around pottery were far and away the most popular. Thus, Hilton Head Pottery was born. “It’s a nice niche for us,” Ginny said. “There’s not another local pottery studio that offers the variety of classes we do.”
From absolute beginners coming to try their hand at pottery for the first time, to seasoned potters who have found a studio to engage in their craft and enjoy the company of fellow artists, there is always something going on here. Classes run the gamut from intro to clay, to hand-building, glazing, and, of course, the potter’s wheel.
Morning, afternoon, and night classes provide an opportunity for everyone to get involved. For experienced potters, studio memberships are available. The monthly family nights offer parents a great way to bond over art, and summer camps are ideal for young potters looking to experience a variety of clay projects.
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“We have a nice family atmosphere in here,” Ginny said. “We try to keep it casual, so people don’t feel intimidated. We’ve worked hard to be inviting and make sure people have a fun time in the studio.”
And after a few classes, who knows? You might find that you have the skills to join the haven of potters that call the studio home. “It creates a great community within the studio because everybody has a place to come and socialize but also encourage each other to share creativity. It’s a well-rounded atmosphere which is a lot of fun,” Ginny said.
And speaking of fun, the open-wheel nights, held every Thursday and Friday at Hilton Head Pottery, have proven to be one of the island’s hottest new nights out. For a one-time fee, you and/or your friends can come out and spend an evening throwing clay and enjoying the camaraderie of exploring your creative self. And of course, you’ll want to bring along a bottle of wine that pairs well with a good time.
“Open Wheel is more of a fun night out than a structured class,” Mark said. “We’ll have one of our potters on hand to guide you and answer questions, but more than anything, it’s a chance to come in, have some fun, and maybe create something you can keep.”
Hilton Head Pottery is located at 21 Mathews Drive, Suite 2 in Sutlers Square. Call them at (843) 342-5439 or visit hiltonheadpottery.com.
