JDCAC Ceramics Studio
Who We Are
The Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center (JDCAC) Ceramics studio is a creative space with many artistic and educational opportunities for the community. The studio offers a wide variety of ceramic classes for the absolute beginner as well as experienced potters. The JDCAC Ceramics Studio is the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself or your children to the creative possibilities of clay!
Independent studio memberships are also available pending approval from the studio coordinator or by taking two full eight week courses. Our studio is equipped with professional pottery throwing wheels, a stainless steel extruder, a slab roller, multiple hand mixed glazes, commercial-grade firing kilns, and pug mills. Our studio space serves the artistic needs of the community, providing residents with the creativity, inspiration, and encouragement to create ceramic works. The studio is designed so that individuals may work in a relaxed environment where ingenuity soars.
Classes
Our instructors offer a selection of top-notch classes that range in skill level and age. Below is a list of ceramics classes coming this spring! Please view the Parks and Recreation program brochure for more detailed information on the many classes Parks and Recreation offers. Current Calendar
CERAMICS INDEPENDENT STUDIO FOR ADULTS
Individuals who have had experience in ceramics and pottery and meet the Independent Studio membership requirements (two full ceramics classes and completion on the Pre-IS courss) may work in the studio independently during center hours once obtaining approval from studio director and registering. The Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center is located at 222 E. Drake Ave. Enjoy working in out studio which offers opportunities to hand-build ceramics and throw on our potter's wheels. A selection of clay will be available for purchase with glaze and firing fees calculated into the cost. Clay is $50/box and must be purchase through MyRec. All Independent Studio memberships will be required to sign into the studio each day, assist in keeping the studio clean, and adhere to the policies stated in the member contract. Studio hours are subject to change based on the schedule of classes offered by the studio. $150/Spring 2026
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | MTWRF | 1/2 - 5/31 | 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. | JDCAC |
Contact: Emillie Dombrowski • (334)501-2944 • edombrowski@auburnal.gov
PRE-INDEPENDENT STUDIO
Are you interested in joining Independent Studio? Taking this course is required before joining. This course will guide you through studio policies, procedures, idea building, troubleshooting, and kiln/glaze knowledge needed to explore our state-of-the-art studio on your own. Prerequisite: completion of two studio classes. (No formal class 6/23 & 30) $70/participant + $30 materials fee.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Dates(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | SA | 1/17 | 9:30 a.m - 12:30 p.m. | JDCAC |
Contact: Emillie Dombrowski • (334) 501 - 2944 • edombrowski@auburnal.gov
FOCUSED WHEEL THROWING - PLATES AND PASTA BOWLS
Join us as we focus on throwing plates and pasta bowls on the wheel! We'll explore forming a variety of plates sizes and functional bowl shapes. No experience is required, though some background may help you reach desired results. Students are encouraged to use the studio outside of class for extra practice (studio hours posted on the door). No makeup sessions will be offered due to flexible studio access. $125 + $30 materials fee.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | R | 10/9 - 11/1 | 5:40 p.m - 7:40 p.m. | JDCAC |
Contact: Romona Brisco • (334) 702 - 6140 • mona_bnice2024@yahoo.com
PRIVATE AND SEMI-PRIVATE CERAMIC LESSONS
Kick off the new year with clay! In January-February, learn slab and coil techniques to craft plates, bowls, and planters, then decorate with textures and underglazes. March-April brings functional vases, containers, or trays. In May, unwind with a painting session - choose a pre-made piece and make it your own. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned maker, there's something creative for everyone this season! note: Groups of five or more need to be registered six weeks in advance for sessions. $65/2 Hours Individual (Includes Materials Fee). $500 + $125 Materials/Group of 10. $900 + $270 Materials/Group of 20.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | R | 1/8 - 5/28 | 5:40 - 7:40 pm | JDCAC |
Contact: Romona Brisco • (334) 703-6140 • mona_bnice2024@yahoo.com
HAND BUILDING: VASES
Come join us as we create and apply surface techniques to custom vases! Using clay slabs and templates, we will perform molding, shaping, and attaching various pieces for each vase. Trimming is optional. No skills are required but completion of surface techniques must be performed outside of class to ensure work completion. No makeups or refunds. Please reach out me by phone/text as preferred method of contact. $125/participant + $30 materials fee.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | R | 3/8 - 4/16 | 5:40 p.m - 7:40 p.m. | JDCAC |
Contact: Ramona Brisco• (334) 703-6140 • mona_bnice2024@yahoo.com
FOCUSED WHEEL THROWING - VASES
Come join me as we create three custom vases in time for spring! We will focus on shaping and collaring cylinders of various heights and performing trimming. Must-have skills on centering and pulling clay cylinders are required in this class to be successful. Practice may be needed outside of class in order to increase skill. No make-up or refunds. Please reach out to me by phone/text as preferred method of contact. $125/participant + $30 materials fee.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | T | 2/3 - 3/3 | 5:40 p.m - 7:40 p.m. | JDCAC |
Contact: Ramona Brisco• (334) 703-6140 • mona_bnice2024@yahoo.com
LEARN TO MAKE POTTERY ON THE WHEEL FOR ADULTS
This class, intended for the absolute beginner, will demystify what looks like magic by teaching the basics of the fascinating process of turning wet clay into functional pieces. Learning time-tested strategies you will center the clay, pull cylinders and throw bowls. By experiencing the many stages of working in clay you will be able to critique your own efforts, helping you make corrections and improvements that lead to success. $150/participant + $40 materials fee.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | W | 1/7 - 2/25 | 5:30 - 8:00 pm | JDCAC |
| 18+ | W | 3/18 - 5/6 | 5:30 - 8:30 pm | JDCAC |
Contact: Amy Kaiser • amyekaiser@gmail.com
50+ Ceramics Workshop
This ceramics workshop is for adults aged 50 and over who want to try something hands-on and enjoyable. You'll make a simple butter dish using basic clay techniques. Instructed by Studio technician Lynnsey Bodin and studio director Emillie Dombrowski. No prior experience needed - just a willingness to try something new. It's a relaxed setting where you can focus on the process, meet others, and create a custom piece. All materials provided. $25/participants + $5 materials fee.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50+ | M | 2/9 | 9 - 11 am | JDCAC |
Contact: Emillie Dombrowski • (334-501-2944) • edombrowski@auburnal.gov
ADULT MIXED-LEVEL WHEEL THROWN POTTERY CLUB
Find your center! Make your mark! Whether it’s your first time around or you’re dusting off old skills, join a supportive circle in which to create with clay on the pottery wheel! This course explores beginner and intermediate techniques offering guided practice, peer coaching and the inspiration and camaraderie that comes with a seat at the circle. $150/participant + $25 materials fee.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | T | 1/13 - 3/3 | 5:30 p.m - 8 p.m | JDCAC |
| 18+ | T | 3/19 - 5/5 | 5:30 p.m - 8 p.m | JDCAC |
Contact: Annika Lee • (334-663-1749) • AnnikaLeePottery@outlook.com
HANDBUILDING FOR SPRING WITH JACQUELINE
Jump into Spring and learn some new techniques along the way! We'll work with coils, slabs, textures and glazes, turning a lump of clay into amazing creations. Bringing 50 years of teaching experience to her class, Jackie always does a demo and project, but students are encouraged to bring their ideas and we'll make them happen in class. $165/participant + $50 materials fee.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | W | 3/4 - 4/15 | 10 am - 12:30 pm | JDCAC |
Contact: Jaqueline McDonough • (770) 715-1741 • ladylovesgrits@hotmail.com
HAND BUILDING AND SURFACE DECORATION TECHNIQUES WITH MARIA
Curious about pottery? Join hand building and surface decoration techniques. This class, for beginners and advanced students will explore hand building by building plates, serving dishes, cups, planters, etc. In addition to creating one-of-a-kind hand building work, students will also enjoy learning various surface decoration techniques to add. $150 + $50 materials fee
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | M | 1/12 - 3/9 | 6 p.m - 8 p.m | JDCAC |
Contact: Maria Auad • (334) 663-8292 • lujanauad@gmail.com
THERAPEUTIC CLAY CLUB
This club meets the first Thursday of every month at JDCAC. We will meet September 4, October 2, and November 6 and then we will have a gallery showing at the end, on December 11th. In September we will make a leaf imprint on clay; in October we will make textured bowls; and in November we will make Christmas ornaments or cookie plates. $15 payable to City of Auburn. For Therapeutic Program Participants. $15/ participant.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13+ | R | 9/4, 10/2, 11/6 | 5:30 p.m - 6:30 p.m | JDCAC |
Contact: Robin • rgoverrm@yahoo.com
PAPER CLAY WORKSHOP - LEARN HOW TO MAKE PAPER CLAY
Discover the magic of paper clay in this fun, hands-on two and a half hour workshop! Learn a no-fail recipe, mix your own bath - no math required, and explore its properties and uses. We'll hand-build with a pre-made slurry and each student gets a 1/4 bag of clay. Paper clay is lightweight. versatile, and great for wheel work too. All supplies and snacks included. Perfect for beginners and curious creatives alike! $165/participants + $50/materials fee.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | SA | 1/24 | 1:30 - 4 p.m. | JDCAC |
Contact: Jacqueline McDonough • (770) 715-1741 • ladylovesgrits@hotmail.com
INTERMEDIATE WHEEL THROWING
Refining your wheel throwing skills in this intermediate class! Designed for those with experience already, this course explored advanced techniques in centering, shaping, trimming, and glazing. Consistent successful centering is required for this class. Guided instruction in weekly classes and open studio time are provided to provide successful skill building. Join us to elevate your pottery skills. $150/participant + $50/materials.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | M | 1/26 - 3/9 | 5:30 - 8:30 pm | JDCAC |
| 18+ | T | 1/27 - 3/10 | 10 am - 1 pm | JDCAC |
Contact: Jenny Mulligan • jclaypottery@gmail.com
GALentine's CERAMIC NIGHT
Grab your besties and join us for a fun, muddy night at our GALentine's Wheel Pottery event! Celebrate friendship and creativity as you learn the basics of wheel throwing in a relaxed social setting. No experience needed - just bring your crew and your sense of humor. Enjoy light refreshments, laughter, and a handmade keepsake to remember the night. It's the perfect way to spin into Valentine's week with your favorite people! $35/person
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | R | 1/29 | 5:30 - 7:30 pm | JDCAC |
Valentine's Clay Night: Ghost Edition
Celebrate love and creativity this Valentine's season with a great Pottery Wheel date night! Join us for an evening of hands-on fun as you and your partner learn the art of wheel throwing together. No experience needed, just bring your date and your sense of adventure. Enjoy light refreshments, laughter and a keepsake you'll craft side by side. make memories that last longer that roses - reserve your spot today! $35/person.
| Age(s) | Day(s) | Date(s) | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ | R | 2/5 | 5:30 - 7:30 pm | JDCAC |
Upcoming Events
Hours of Operation
Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday 9, a.m. - 1 p.m.
Please note that after the quarter has begun, hours may change. An updated calendar will be available upon request after the start of the quarter.
Independent Studio
Individuals who have had experience in ceramics and meet the Independent Studio membership requirements may work in the studio independently during center hours once obtaining approval from studio director and registering.
The Ceramics Studio is located inside the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center at 222 E. Drake Ave. Enjoy working in our studio, which offers opportunities to hand-build ceramics and throw on our potter's wheels.
A selection of clay will be available to purchase with glaze and firing fees calculated into the cost. Clay is $40/box and must be bought through MyRec. All Independent Studio members will be required to sign into the studio each day, aid in keeping the studio clean, and adhere to the policies stated in the member contract. Studio hours are subject to change based on the schedule of classes offered by the studio. Price is $80 per quarter.
To purchase a ceramic transfer please visit the studio prior to purchasing to see a current list of designs available.
Any person interested interested in becoming an independent studio member must meet one of the following three criteria:
- Taken a minimum of two classes at the Jan Dempsey Ceramics Studio within the past two calendar years. Only classes that are 7 weeks or longer count towards independent membership.
- Completed 16 hours of private lessons with a studio instructor.
- Have comparable professional experience or completed a ceramics degree in the last five years.
If the above requirements are met, an interview and studio tour can be scheduled with the studio director to decide independent membership status. Once given permission by the studio director, members can register for independent membership. Members who need assistance registering can visit the Harris Center at 425 Perry St. in Auburn. Examples of work and experience must be presented.
For more information about the Ceramics Studio or the City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Department, please contact Emillie Dombrowski, Art Education Specialist, at edombrowski@auburnal.gov or by calling 334-501-2944