Elemental Studios

Youth Clay Intensive (Ages 8–13) at Elemental Studios

Let your child explore the joy of creativity this summer with our Youth Clay Intensive! Meeting for a total of six sessions Monday through Wednesday over two weeks from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, this program offers kids a hands-on experience with clay in a fun, supportive environment.

Led by Brittney Baldwin
Our intensive is led by Brittney Baldwin, an experienced educator with a BFA in Art Education who also teaches in Portland Public Schools. Brittney’s approach is rooted in mindfulness, play-based learning, and community connection.

What Participants Will Do

Start Each Day with Participant Circle:
We begin with grounding breaths, a check-in, and an introduction to the theme of the day. Activities like mindful movement or a creative spark story set the tone.

Master the Pottery Wheel:
Participants will spend the entire first week and part of the second week working on the wheel, learning how to center, throw, and shape clay.

Create from Start to Finish:
Students will learn the full clay process, from wheel work to drying, trimming, decorating, and firing and glazing their creations, gaining a complete understanding of how to bring an idea to a finished piece.

Explore Clay Projects with Mindfulness:
Projects are designed to spark creativity and self-awareness. Examples include:

• Nature Impressions: Gather natural materials to press into clay, creating textured tiles or wall hangings that encourage presence and exploration.
• Creatures and Where They Live: Invent clay creatures and their tiny environments, blending storytelling and sculpting.
• Inside/Outside Bowls: Craft pinch pots that explore inner and outer self—the outside showing what we share, the inside what we hold close.

What to Wear/Bring

• Clothes that can get dirty
• A water bottle

Elemental Studios is a place where kids can express themselves, make friends, and experience the calming power of creativity. Our Youth Intensives are all about gratitude, exploration, reflection, and community.