Studio Etiquette

As a member you are part of collective community of artists who come to create and be inspired. In order for the community to thrive we ask that you adhere to the following housekeeping rules:

1. Respect others and their work. Some people come to socialize, some come to escape and create in a calm environment. Enter the space quietly and get a feel for the room. Likely, people will be happy to engage in conversation but if not, don’t take it personally!

2. Never touch or move other’s work! This includes work on shelves or tables. Admire with your eyes only. In general, if it’s not yours, don’t touch it! This includes tools, clay, and pieces.

3. Accidents happen. Should you damage another person’s work, please admit it (we have cameras) send an email to Hanna so this can be communicated to the other student. While it might be heartbreaking, it will support a place of trust and respect.

4. Tools and supplies: take care of tools including washing them and replacing them in their designated storage area.

5. Clay management: we have several bags of reclaimed clay that can be used for practice work. You will often need to wedge this clay a little more than a fresh bag but it is usable at no charge!

6. Sinks: Do not put clay chunks in the sink. Empty clay chunks and slurries into the buckets before washing tools, pans, and other items.

7. Wheels: Wash your pans after use and replace pans on wheels. If you have never removed the pans or have difficulty, ask for help. They will break if not properly removed or replaced.

8. Clean up after yourself: push chairs in, put your personal tools, clay, etc. in your space, put classroom tools back where they belong, place your pieces for firing on the correct shelves (bisque and glaze).

9. Glaze jars: Glazes in jars often need the sides and top scraped and shaken very well before use. Using a paintbrush or wooden tools often works well. Wipe drips off before replacing lids. Do NOT use clay tools inside glazes. Bucket glazes need to be mixed well before use. Please ask for instructions before using bucket glazes.

10. Use cookies for glaze firing: until you are well versed in glaze use, place items on cookies for glaze firing. This will protect the kiln shelves from glaze mishaps.

11. Turn lights and wheels off before leaving if you are the last one out. Be sure doors is closed and locks before you leave.