Open Ceramic Studio

To qualify to use this studio, you must be an AAO Member AND a current or former ceramics student with the AAO (or equivalent experience in another studio).

No need to register; be prepared to pay with cash or check when you show up.

PLEASE NOTE: If you are not currently enrolled in a ceramics class at the AAO, you should be able to work primarily independently – i.e. with little instruction from the studio proctor. If you are not able to work independently yet, please register for another class. 

We have 6 electric potter’s wheels and 2 long tables for hand building along with a slab roller, crank extruder, and lots of other studio tools. We have several types of clay available for purchase, and a variety of studio glazes available for general use. You may provide your own materials & tools if you choose. 

Please contact Marybeth Sorendo at 315-746-1240 or whateverworks.mbs@gmail.com for available Open Studio dates and times. Open Studio days & times are also posted on the AAO calendar.

New rates as of November 1, 2020: 

Studio Usage Fees

  • Per session studio usage: $10. Sessions are typically 2 hours each.
  • Monthly studio usage: $50. (*limited to scheduled Open Studio hours)
  • Students currently enrolled in any ceramics class at the AAO will be given coupons for 2 free studio sessions, which expire 2 weeks after the end of the class. 

Other Charges

  • One new 25-pound pug of clay costs $25. We get our clay from Clayscapes. 
  • Leftover clay in “reclaim” buckets may be reclaimed and used for free. 
  • Bisque firing fees range from $1 for a mug up to $5 for an entire shelf.
  • Glaze & finish firing fees range from $2 for a mug up to $10 for an entire shelf. 

Covid Rules – 

  • Face masks must be worn over mouth and nose at all times while in the studio, even if you’ve been vaccinated.
  • Please maintain 6 feet between yourself and all others whenever possible. 
  • The number of attendees may be limited at the studio manager’s discretion to facilitate social distancing. 
  • We expect studio attendees to be responsible for their own health and safety. AAO staff cleans our facility on a regular basis; however, we expect YOU to help us (and yourself) by cleaning and sanitizing your individual workspace before and after each class session. Appropriate products will be made available for your use.