5 Different Learning Formats for Improving Your Pottery Skills
According to an article by the Mcgraw Center at Princeton University “Making learning difficult in strategic and desirable ways will enhance retention, retrieval, and transfer of knowledge.”
Yes, you read that correctly, when you make learning difficult in a way that compels you to want to know more, in a desirable way, it’ll sink in faster and be retained longer.
So for those of you who skimmed the first paragraph, no we aren’t saying learning how to make pottery should be difficult. In fact, at our studio we believe your experience should be as stress free as possible, and a fun escape from your obligations at home, school, work, and just life in general.
In this post we’ll look at some of the different pottery learning formats available in Rochester, NY. For those of you who may not be local, many of the options we will cover will likely exist in your community, so don’t fret and keep reading. And in addition, we’ll highlight some of the things you should consider when choosing an option for you. Because the more options you have to consider, the the more likely you’ll find a place, or learning format that provides that “desirable” difficulty level your brain will love.
Maximizing Our Educational Experiences
But first, what creates a great atmosphere for education? Before we look at some clay knowledge building options that are available, let’s look at how we can optimize our experience no matter where it takes place.
You’ve probably heard others say they are auditory learners, or others mention they prefer visual or tactical teaching styles. But according to Adam Lupu VP, Learning at Andela, putting ourselves in the best position to learn can be looked at in a slightly different way.
Adam believes that there are three pillars of effective learning, and those are Construction, Cognition, and Community. Simply put, we do best when our learning environments give us a chance to make, think, and be around communities focused on similar goals and techniques.
Wait, What Does This Have to Do With Pottery?
Hear us out, we will make a point, we promise! Learning is a complex process, and if you want to increase your chances of success when learning about a new topic, like working with clay, it’s important to find an environment and workflow that works best for you.
We are all unique undividuals, and that means that not all learning environments will be effective, and having the ability to check yourself, and explore other options will make learning much more difficult, in that enjoyable way.
Finally, Some Options For You to Consider
Below are 5 great ways you can learn about pottery here in Rochester, NY. While there may be other learning options you’ll love, or you know of, these are just some of the great options you can consider.
1. Take a Pottery Class
What to Consider about Pottery Class:
Great for all skill levels
Guided by an experienced instructor
Structured, and focused learning
Okay, this may seem like an obvious option, you want to learn how to work with clay, so you take a pottery class. A great option for some, classes are structured, and include access to one or more instructors. Typically there is some sort of syllabus that tells you what to expect to learn, and sets a schedule and end date for the semester or session.
Whether you hope to knock the rust off, or you want to try the potter's wheel for the first time, a class is a well rounded option worth considering for all skill levels.
Looking for a place to take a class? Check out our article on 3 of the best places to take a pottery class in Rochester.
2. Rent a Shelf at a Community Studio
What to Consider about Shelf Rentals:
Great for independent study
Provides access to equipment
Work at your own pace
Recommended for individuals with experience
Renting a shelf at a community pottery studio is another way you can continue to learn and develop your skills. When you rent a shelf at a community studio you are given space, and are allowed to use the studio's equipment to make work.
Unlike a class, you have no real supervision. You are on your own, responsible for your work, your tools, and timing. When you use the facilities you may be there all by yourself, or surrounded by other renters focused on their own projects and timelines.
Not all studio rental options are the same, and some studios have waitlists, but if you are looking for an option that fits your schedule and allows you to learn at your own pace, a shelf rental is perfect.
3. Join Your Local Pottery Club
What to Consider About Pottery Clubs:
Great for all skill levels
Work at your own pace
Social experience, learn and meet new people like you
Format brings the best of a classroom and shelf rental
Joining a pottery club is a unique, and fun way to experience clay. A pottery club, like Wheel & Slab, gives members flexibility to learn at their own pace, while being amongst other like minded members, with similar interests and goals.
The social community element of a club makes it an especially interesting learning environment for some. Need a little competition, a club can provide it. Need some guidance, and encouragement, it’s there. Love to share information you found, easy to do with 1 or more members.
While not all pottery clubs are the same, you’ll find some, like ours, offer great benefits like unlimited clay and firings, that make learning more cost effective and less stressful. In short, If you enjoy your learning with a little fun, and flexibility, consider joining a club.
4. Setup a Home or Private Studio
What to Consider About a Home or Private Studio
Equipment more accessible
Probably best to do with some prior knowledge
Need space and funding to make it possible
Gives you complete control of your environment
More details to consider, but good learning experiences overall
Sometimes we work best in our own space, in our own place. If a community pottery studio, or club just doesn’t work best for you, consider a home or private studio as an option.
Having complete control over your environment, and schedule can make the learning process more enjoyable, and fun. But it’s important to consider the costs, space, and hazards a studio can bring.
Don’t be afraid to do it, but do consider working with an experienced potter or your local clay distributor when designing a space, hooking up a kiln, or making your own glazes.
5. Look for Private Lessons
What to Consider About Private Pottery Lessons
Applies to all skill levels
Learn techniques a person has uniquely developed
Great way to get one-on-one support
Do you have a pottery idol? A ceramic celebrity crush? Maybe they’d offer some guidance, or perhaps even private lessons.
Perhaps one of the more intimidating options on our list, asking for private lessons can be challenging, and not all potters enjoy or offer this as an option. But it’s not entirely uncommon, especially now with virtual options so easy to do. If you love a particular potters work, or admire their skills, asking for lessons or subscribing to training materials they offer is an exceptional way for you to improve your form, and pick up new techniques.
If you do decide that private pottery lessons would be effective for you, remember that you’ll be using this person's valuable time. The price they ask to give lessons may be more than you’d expect, but you are accessing experience, and processes that could help you elevate your game quicker.
In Conclusion
Find a place you feel comfortable, and a style that helps you reach your goals. Knowing your options, and what you hope to achieve will give you a clearer sense of the path. And allow you to question and make adjustments as you go.
Still unsure where to start? If you are in the Rochester, NY area, schedule a tour of our studio, meet our club founders and we’ll chat about clay and options for you.
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