If dance is an expression of the human spirit, then it is best expressed by people of all abilities. That is the fundamental belief behind the Dancing Wheels Company & School. Considered one of the premier arts and disabilities organizations in the U.S., Dancing Wheels is a professional, physically integrated dance company uniting the talents of dancers both with and without disabilities. Mary Verdi-Fletcher, the first professional wheelchair dancer in the U.S., founded the Dancing Wheels Company in Cleveland in 1980. Born with spina bifida, Mary wanted to offer others with disabilities full and equal access into the world of dance. An almost unimaginable concept at the time, Mary’s vision and passion have since helped to revolutionize our very notion of dance – as well as what defines a dancer. Dancing Wheels travels the globe advocating disability awareness and entertaining 30,000-50,000 people each year. With a repertory of over 100 works from nationally-esteemed choreographers and a message of inclusion and accessibility, the Company continually expands the reach of artistic possibilities while celebrating the universal spirit of dance.

Photo: Company dancers Morgan Walker and DeMarco Sleeper performing in “Three 4 Ann” (2022) choreographed by Mark Tomasic. Photo Credit: Mark Horning, 2023.

Saturday, March 14th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Rhonda Baldner

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Clay Cavern (basement) at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will use paper, paint, markers, glue, etc. to draw and construct a bee on a honeycomb.

Are you an artist or hobbyist working in another art form? Whether you dabble in drawing, or are an experienced painter, this space is for members to be creative.

Grab your favorite art supplies (paint, paper, canvas, etc.) and use our second floor gallery space for a quiet place to work on your art during our studio hours.

(Occasionally, the second floor gallery will be closed for a private event. The folks at the desk can advise you on when the space will be occupied.)

The Clay Cavern is located in the basement of the Austin ArtWorks Center and is shared studio and class space.

How does it work?

• Drop in during our Wednesday Open Clay Studio to get a tour and a guide to getting started in ceramics.

• Previous experience, or a recent class in wheel throwing is required to throw on the wheel. No previous experience necessary for handbuilding.

• The first visit is free and includes a 1lb ball of clay, so you can try it out and feel if the space is right for you.

• From there, you can purchase your own bag of clay from us- we currently use a Midfire White from Minnesota Clay and a 25lb bag costs $60 (starting January 1st, 2025) which includes unlimited firings and access to all of our glazes.

• Members have unlimited access to the space at no extra charge. If you are not a member, each visit will cost $5 (after your first free visit).

Cross the Bridge from Audience to Performer!

Join us for a unique music event that builds a bridge for talented music lovers to step on stage and become performing musicians. The Austin ArtWorks Center gallery hosts a house band and wine/beer bar. Come enjoy the music or plan to sing your own song. Free and open to the public.

Performers will each be allowed to present ONE song (opportunity for additional songs if time allows). Sign up in advance or take advantage of a limited number of ‘walk up’ spots each month.

March 19th w/ emcee Lisa Dunlop

Gallery closes for artists Amanda Pearson and Halle Rittgers.

Amanda Pearson | Artist Statement | When I get the question of “what kind of art do you do?” my response is “I glue things to boards”. It catches people off-guard and there are always follow up questions, but to me it is the best way to describe how I create.

There is a phrase that has stuck with me for years – “investment of the hand”. People who look at my pieces are drawn to the meticulous nature and it is common for them to react by reaching out and trying to touch the surface. The materials I use are not commonly seen in galleries, but are typically found shoved towards the back of a junk drawer or a forgotten craft bin. There is value in the mundane that my work elevates. For me, creating each piece is meditative. My work requires time, and it takes a lot of it. One of my favorite aspects of these pieces that I have made over the last few years is that they are like a journal; I can see my moods, experiences, and situations expressed over time as I moved through the creation of the image. My art creates a permanent record – I must continually move forward with confidence, because there is little room for adjusting what was done before.

My pieces capture a moment of time in spaces that I consider sacred. Using nature to represent these important moments is the best way that I have found to honor my experiences in a way that also resonates with the viewer.

Halle Rittgers | Artist Statement |My work is a visual narrative of life expressed through abstracted color and form on raw canvas. My paintings explore the dynamic relationships between chance and intention, meditation and play, and color and texture. While studying at Bethel University in St. Paul, MN. I began using natural dyes and second hand textiles, which led me to my present style of using stained washes and a lexicon of marks and shapes on canvas. Growth and contemplation are present in the process as I make compositional choices, working in layers on paper and raw canvas. Each painting starts with playful experimentation as the brush meets the canvas, and advances into more refined exploration. My choice of mark making and my use of recycled materials from past work hint at distant memories in many of my final pieces. 

Through my painting practice, I am constantly striving to become more presentand to find intrigue in the repetitive and familiar, noting that each small mark andmoment in the process plays an important role in the final piece. These ideas run parallelto my exploration of daily life through liturgy, small practices, and the ordinary habitsthat form us as humans. I want to articulate these mundane moments of life as sacredoccasions and celebrations that form us and become part of our story. The overlappingmethodology in my work tells a dynamic story through the process of the painting itself.

Awaken your creativity as winter fades and color returns

This retreat features four 2-hour blocks of art making, including block printing, watercolor, calligraphy, art journaling and one artist lecture. Lunch will be provided both days along with an assortment of breakfast items and coffee in the mornings.

Schedule:

9am - 9:30am : Check in & welcome - breakfast snacks and coffee provided

9:30am - 11:30am : Art Session I - Instant Block Prints w/ Laura Andrews

11:45am - 12:45pm : Lunch provided and on site

1pm - 3pm : Art Session II - Beginning Again, Not Starting Over Lecture w/ Domonique Anare Venzant

3pm - 4pm : Break

4pm - 6pm : Art Session III - Watercolor w/ Caroline Porter

Saturday, March 21st from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Ashley Langfeldt

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Clay Cavern (downstairs) at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will use watercolor paint and fine point markers to create illustrations.

Awaken your creativity as winter fades and color returns

This retreat features four 2-hour blocks of art making, including block printing, watercolor, calligraphy, art journaling and one artist lecture. Lunch will be provided both days along with an assortment of breakfast items and coffee in the mornings.

Schedule:

9 - 9:30am : Check in - breakfast snacks and coffee provided

9:30am - 11:30am : Art Session IV - Brush Marker Lettering w/ Sally Wightkin

11:45am - 12:45pm : Lunch provided and on site

1pm - 3pm : Art Session V - Art Journaling w/ Caroline Porter

3pm - 4pm : Show and Tell - share about your time at the retreat and share your art

Are you an artist or hobbyist working in another art form? Whether you dabble in drawing, or are an experienced painter, this space is for members to be creative.

Grab your favorite art supplies (paint, paper, canvas, etc.) and use our second floor gallery space for a quiet place to work on your art during our studio hours.

(Occasionally, the second floor gallery will be closed for a private event. The folks at the desk can advise you on when the space will be occupied.)

The Clay Cavern is located in the basement of the Austin ArtWorks Center and is shared studio and class space.

How does it work?

• Drop in during our Wednesday Open Clay Studio to get a tour and a guide to getting started in ceramics.

• Previous experience, or a recent class in wheel throwing is required to throw on the wheel. No previous experience necessary for handbuilding.

• The first visit is free and includes a 1lb ball of clay, so you can try it out and feel if the space is right for you.

• From there, you can purchase your own bag of clay from us- we currently use a Midfire White from Minnesota Clay and a 25lb bag costs $60 (starting January 1st, 2025) which includes unlimited firings and access to all of our glazes.

• Members have unlimited access to the space at no extra charge. If you are not a member, each visit will cost $5 (after your first free visit).

Austin Area Arts has been fortunate to have the support of many wonderful patrons over the years. Our organization would not be what it is today without their generosity and involvement from the very beginning. One such supporter was Jim Wegner, who was instrumental in organizing and hosting a weekly open studio. Although Jim taught countless students during his years as an educator, his passion for teaching did not end with his retirement. One of the many who benefited from those open studios was Sue Ruzek, who continued learning from Jim while developing her own artistic voice.

In honor and memory of these two artists, we present the James Wegner & Susan Ruzek Memorial Gallery.

Please join us for an opening reception on Thursday, March 26 from 4-6pm. Light refreshments will be served. Soda, wine and beer available for purchase.

You are invited to view this special gallery show, presented March 27 - June 5, in honor and memory of two beloved Austin Area Arts supporters and friends.

Ball in the House is an R&B/Soul/Pop a cappella group based out of Boston, MA, whose high energy shows have audiences​singing, dancing, even beatboxing along! With their extensive tour schedule (averaging 200 shows a year), Ball in the House has performed everywhere - from theaters to performing arts centers, fairs & festivals, to opening for some of the biggest acts in the world, such as The Beach Boys, The Jonas Brothers, The Temptations, Fantasia, Gladys Knight, Lionel Richie, and many others!

Saturday, March 28th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Sylvia Hernandez

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Clay Cavern (basement) at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will work with acrylic paint on canvas.

Come enjoy this FREE double feature event at the Paramount Theatre! Back to back screenings of Top Gun (1986) & Top Gun: Maverick (2022). Event begins at 4pm with Godfather's pizza for sale between 5:30-7:30pm. Regular concessions and wine/beer also served.

Sponsored by Randy & Wendy Kramer

Are you an artist or hobbyist working in another art form? Whether you dabble in drawing, or are an experienced painter, this space is for members to be creative.

Grab your favorite art supplies (paint, paper, canvas, etc.) and use our second floor gallery space for a quiet place to work on your art during our studio hours.

(Occasionally, the second floor gallery will be closed for a private event. The folks at the desk can advise you on when the space will be occupied.)

The Clay Cavern is located in the basement of the Austin ArtWorks Center and is shared studio and class space.

How does it work?

• Drop in during our Wednesday Open Clay Studio to get a tour and a guide to getting started in ceramics.

• Previous experience, or a recent class in wheel throwing is required to throw on the wheel. No previous experience necessary for handbuilding.

• The first visit is free and includes a 1lb ball of clay, so you can try it out and feel if the space is right for you.

• From there, you can purchase your own bag of clay from us- we currently use a Midfire White from Minnesota Clay and a 25lb bag costs $60 (starting January 1st, 2025) which includes unlimited firings and access to all of our glazes.

• Members have unlimited access to the space at no extra charge. If you are not a member, each visit will cost $5 (after your first free visit).

Saturday, April 4th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Kandee Feist

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Clay Cavern (basement) at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will work with found objects and recycled materials to use as tools when painting.

Are you an artist or hobbyist working in another art form? Whether you dabble in drawing, or are an experienced painter, this space is for members to be creative.

Grab your favorite art supplies (paint, paper, canvas, etc.) and use our second floor gallery space for a quiet place to work on your art during our studio hours.

(Occasionally, the second floor gallery will be closed for a private event. The folks at the desk can advise you on when the space will be occupied.)

The Clay Cavern is located in the basement of the Austin ArtWorks Center and is shared studio and class space.

How does it work?

• Drop in during our Wednesday Open Clay Studio to get a tour and a guide to getting started in ceramics.

• Previous experience, or a recent class in wheel throwing is required to throw on the wheel. No previous experience necessary for handbuilding.

• The first visit is free and includes a 1lb ball of clay, so you can try it out and feel if the space is right for you.

• From there, you can purchase your own bag of clay from us- we currently use a Midfire White from Minnesota Clay and a 25lb bag costs $60 (starting January 1st, 2025) which includes unlimited firings and access to all of our glazes.

• Members have unlimited access to the space at no extra charge. If you are not a member, each visit will cost $5 (after your first free visit).

Saturday, April 11th from 9am - 4pm & Sunday, April 13th from 9am - 4pm

Geared towards ages 18+

Instructor: Nancy Odalen

Location: Upstairs Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Nancy Odalen, VGM will be teaching this rosemaling painting class for beginners. At this level you will learn brush control and technique, complete a basic scroll and flower form. The final task will be to paint a design of at least 3-4 inches in both height and width. The class will be taught in oils, and we will work on practice boards. There will be supplies available during the class  for students as well as brushes and the cost for these are included in the class price.

This will be an interesting, fun and informative class that will provide you with a firm foundation in the art of Rosemaling. For Sons of Norway Members, this will provide you with the skills you will need to complete the activities required by Sons of Norway for the Rosemaling Cultural Skills Medal.

Saturday, April 11th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Tressie Kinney

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Clay Cavern (basement) at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will sculpt using polymer clay during class and will be sent home with bake instructions to bake the project at home.

As with all forces of nature, the music and energy created by The Next Generation Leahy simply cannot be contained. The drive to create music is powerful within each of the Leahy children. It has given rise to multi-instrumental talents, whose dynamic live performances have been described as “astounding” and “breath-taking.” Belying their young ages, these siblings are all accomplished multi-instrumentalists whose live performances are filled with the high-energy, infectious music associated with the Leahy name. However, not content to play only the music of their Celtic heritage, these musicians explore many genres of music and pull influences from far and wide. Fiddle, cello, French accordion, singing, piano, and French-Canadian step-dancing.

Are you an artist or hobbyist working in another art form? Whether you dabble in drawing, or are an experienced painter, this space is for members to be creative.

Grab your favorite art supplies (paint, paper, canvas, etc.) and use our second floor gallery space for a quiet place to work on your art during our studio hours.

(Occasionally, the second floor gallery will be closed for a private event. The folks at the desk can advise you on when the space will be occupied.)

The Clay Cavern is located in the basement of the Austin ArtWorks Center and is shared studio and class space.

How does it work?

• Drop in during our Wednesday Open Clay Studio to get a tour and a guide to getting started in ceramics.

• Previous experience, or a recent class in wheel throwing is required to throw on the wheel. No previous experience necessary for handbuilding.

• The first visit is free and includes a 1lb ball of clay, so you can try it out and feel if the space is right for you.

• From there, you can purchase your own bag of clay from us- we currently use a Midfire White from Minnesota Clay and a 25lb bag costs $60 (starting January 1st, 2025) which includes unlimited firings and access to all of our glazes.

• Members have unlimited access to the space at no extra charge. If you are not a member, each visit will cost $5 (after your first free visit).

Cross the Bridge from Audience to Performer!

Join us for a unique music event that builds a bridge for talented music lovers to step on stage and become performing musicians. The Austin ArtWorks Center gallery hosts a house band and wine/beer bar. Come enjoy the music or plan to sing your own song. Free and open to the public.

Performers will each be allowed to present ONE song (opportunity for additional songs if time allows). Sign up in advance or take advantage of a limited number of ‘walk up’ spots each month.

April 16th w/ emcee Terry Schmidt

Saturday, April 17th from 1 - 5pm

Geared towards ages 14+

Instructor: Deb D’Souza

Location: Upstairs Galley at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Let’s get ready for Spring with some colorful bird garden stakes! These fused birds will add color to your garden or a potted plant. You will be guided in glass cutting techniques and design considerations. You will create two birds (6” and 4”) and have the choice of making a garden stake or suncatcher. LOTS of fun design options and a great way to brighten your day! Beginners welcome. All tools and glass provided. Birds will be fired and available for pick up the week following the class.

Saturday, April 18th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Sylvia Hernandez

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Upstairs Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will work with acrylic paint on canvas.

Are you an artist or hobbyist working in another art form? Whether you dabble in drawing, or are an experienced painter, this space is for members to be creative.

Grab your favorite art supplies (paint, paper, canvas, etc.) and use our second floor gallery space for a quiet place to work on your art during our studio hours.

(Occasionally, the second floor gallery will be closed for a private event. The folks at the desk can advise you on when the space will be occupied.)

The Clay Cavern is located in the basement of the Austin ArtWorks Center and is shared studio and class space.

How does it work?

• Drop in during our Wednesday Open Clay Studio to get a tour and a guide to getting started in ceramics.

• Previous experience, or a recent class in wheel throwing is required to throw on the wheel. No previous experience necessary for handbuilding.

• The first visit is free and includes a 1lb ball of clay, so you can try it out and feel if the space is right for you.

• From there, you can purchase your own bag of clay from us- we currently use a Midfire White from Minnesota Clay and a 25lb bag costs $60 (starting January 1st, 2025) which includes unlimited firings and access to all of our glazes.

• Members have unlimited access to the space at no extra charge. If you are not a member, each visit will cost $5 (after your first free visit).

Thursday, April 23rd from 6pm - 7:30pm

Geared towards ages 14+

Instructor: Katie Stromlund

Location: Upstairs Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Join us for a relaxed, step-by-step painting class where you'll create a cheerful field of daisies.  Whether you're a total beginner or an experienced painter looking for a fun project, Katie will guide you through each step to create a piece you'll be proud to display!  All supplies provided, just bring your creativity and a smile!

Saturday, April 25th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Ashley Langfeldt

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Clay Cavern (downstairs) at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will create a paper plate loom and personalize it with paint.

The story of Muyehpen has been passed down for generations by the Knyaw (Karen) people of Burma. Known to be the most beautiful Knyaw woman in her time, and possessing supernatural powers, Muyehpen was kidnapped by the king of Siam and became a sacrifice. This is her narrative of resistance and resilience, which lives on today. Written by Ehkhudah Zar, this is the first-ever theater production by a Knyaw playwright in the U.S. and shares the story of Muyehpen with a new generation. Exposed Brick Theatre originally produced the World Premiere of Muyehpen in May 2023 at the Historic Mounds Theatre in St. Paul. The play is performed in English. There will be a talk with the playwright following the performance.

Are you an artist or hobbyist working in another art form? Whether you dabble in drawing, or are an experienced painter, this space is for members to be creative.

Grab your favorite art supplies (paint, paper, canvas, etc.) and use our second floor gallery space for a quiet place to work on your art during our studio hours.

(Occasionally, the second floor gallery will be closed for a private event. The folks at the desk can advise you on when the space will be occupied.)

The Clay Cavern is located in the basement of the Austin ArtWorks Center and is shared studio and class space.

How does it work?

• Drop in during our Wednesday Open Clay Studio to get a tour and a guide to getting started in ceramics.

• Previous experience, or a recent class in wheel throwing is required to throw on the wheel. No previous experience necessary for handbuilding.

• The first visit is free and includes a 1lb ball of clay, so you can try it out and feel if the space is right for you.

• From there, you can purchase your own bag of clay from us- we currently use a Midfire White from Minnesota Clay and a 25lb bag costs $60 (starting January 1st, 2025) which includes unlimited firings and access to all of our glazes.

• Members have unlimited access to the space at no extra charge. If you are not a member, each visit will cost $5 (after your first free visit).

Friday, May 1st from 6pm - 8pm

Saturday, May 2nd from 9am - 5pm

Sunday, May 13th from 11am - 3pm

Geared towards ages 14+

Instructor: Debra D’Souza

Location: Upstairs Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

In this weekend beginner class, students will design and create an 8” x 8”, indoor mosaic using richly colored stained glass. We will cover all the steps of mosaic creation, from preparing the substrate, design, tool use, setting and grouting. Use your own design, or choose from a selection of prepared designs for your piece. Use of tools, substrate, glass and all materials are included. No art or mosaic experience necessary. You will leave with a framed work of art and the basic knowledge to move forward on your new mosaic adventure and a printed handout for future reference.

Friday, May 1st from 6pm - 8pm

Saturday, May 2nd from 9am - 5pm

Sunday, May 13th from 11am - 3pm

Geared towards ages 14+

Instructor: Debra D’Souza

Location: Upstairs Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

In this weekend beginner class, students will design and create an 8” x 8”, indoor mosaic using richly colored stained glass. We will cover all the steps of mosaic creation, from preparing the substrate, design, tool use, setting and grouting. Use your own design, or choose from a selection of prepared designs for your piece. Use of tools, substrate, glass and all materials are included. No art or mosaic experience necessary. You will leave with a framed work of art and the basic knowledge to move forward on your new mosaic adventure and a printed handout for future reference.

Saturday, May 2nd from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Sylvia Hernandez

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Clay Cavern (basement) at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will work with acrylic paint on canvas.

Friday, May 1st from 6pm - 8pm

Saturday, May 2nd from 9am - 5pm

Sunday, May 13th from 11am - 3pm

Geared towards ages 14+

Instructor: Debra D’Souza

Location: Upstairs Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

In this weekend beginner class, students will design and create an 8” x 8”, indoor mosaic using richly colored stained glass. We will cover all the steps of mosaic creation, from preparing the substrate, design, tool use, setting and grouting. Use your own design, or choose from a selection of prepared designs for your piece. Use of tools, substrate, glass and all materials are included. No art or mosaic experience necessary. You will leave with a framed work of art and the basic knowledge to move forward on your new mosaic adventure and a printed handout for future reference.

The Clay Cavern is located in the basement of the Austin ArtWorks Center and is shared studio and class space.

How does it work?

• Drop in during our Wednesday Open Clay Studio to get a tour and a guide to getting started in ceramics.

• Previous experience, or a recent class in wheel throwing is required to throw on the wheel. No previous experience necessary for handbuilding.

• The first visit is free and includes a 1lb ball of clay, so you can try it out and feel if the space is right for you.

• From there, you can purchase your own bag of clay from us- we currently use a Midfire White from Minnesota Clay and a 25lb bag costs $60 (starting January 1st, 2025) which includes unlimited firings and access to all of our glazes.

• Members have unlimited access to the space at no extra charge. If you are not a member, each visit will cost $5 (after your first free visit).

Fabulous clothing from Sandy’s Clothing & Art!

Consider your clothing an art form! Visit with Sandy on the second floor gallery of the Austin Artworks Center from 11am - 4pm.

Minnesota jewelry artist Andrea Turini brings audiences inside the living traditions of Czech glass and beadmaking. Her presentation, Heirloom Fire: Czech Glasswork, draws on firsthand experiences in Jablonec nad Nisou, a region long recognized as a world center of bead and button production.

Cultural Storytelling

• The evolution of the Czech glass industry, from family workshops to state-run factories under communism, and how artists adapted their craft during these changing eras

• Generational traditions — families who have passed down lampworking, pressing, and cutting techniques for centuries

• The cultural significance of beads and buttons, both as local artistry and as exports that shaped global fashion

• The resilience of a cottage industry that once fed an entire region, where survival depended on glass and beadmaking — and the fact that many workshops remain in business today is nothing short of astounding

Interactive Demonstration

• Step-by-step look at how a bead and a button are made

• Sample beads at different production stages for audiences to handle

• A Czech button mold and examples of finished jewelry featuring Czech glass

Following the presentation, participants can enjoy a one-hour hands-on jewelry design session. Each person will design a coordinating set of jewelry.

Participants select from Andrea’s curated collection of authentic Czech glass beads to create their designs. Andrea demonstrates design concepts and assists with selection, then completes the technical finishing (wrapping, crimping and assembly) during class.

• Earrings + Bracelet: $50

• Earrings + Necklace: $55

Participation requirement: Enrollment in the jewelry workshop is only available to those who attend the presentation.

Register for the workshop here

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund.

Saturday, May 9th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Tressie Kinney

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Clay Cavern (basement) at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will sculpt using polymer clay during class and will be sent home with bake instructions to bake the project at home.

A superhero known as Black Panther defends Wakanda, a technologically advanced country in Africa that has hidden itself away from the rest of the world. Now, he must face a dissident who wants to sell the country's natural resources to fund an uprising. PG-13

In partnership with The Next Chapter, Inc. Free book giveaway after the movie!

A superhero known as Black Panther defends Wakanda, a technologically advanced country in Africa that has hidden itself away from the rest of the world. Now, he must face a dissident who wants to sell the country's natural resources to fund an uprising. PG-13

In partnership with The Next Chapter, Inc. Free book giveaway after the movie!

The Clay Cavern is located in the basement of the Austin ArtWorks Center and is shared studio and class space.

How does it work?

• Drop in during our Wednesday Open Clay Studio to get a tour and a guide to getting started in ceramics.

• Previous experience, or a recent class in wheel throwing is required to throw on the wheel. No previous experience necessary for handbuilding.

• The first visit is free and includes a 1lb ball of clay, so you can try it out and feel if the space is right for you.

• From there, you can purchase your own bag of clay from us- we currently use a Midfire White from Minnesota Clay and a 25lb bag costs $60 (starting January 1st, 2025) which includes unlimited firings and access to all of our glazes.

• Members have unlimited access to the space at no extra charge. If you are not a member, each visit will cost $5 (after your first free visit).

The Clay Cavern is located in the basement of the Austin ArtWorks Center and is shared studio and class space.

How does it work?

• Drop in during our Wednesday Open Clay Studio to get a tour and a guide to getting started in ceramics.

• Previous experience, or a recent class in wheel throwing is required to throw on the wheel. No previous experience necessary for handbuilding.

• The first visit is free and includes a 1lb ball of clay, so you can try it out and feel if the space is right for you.

• From there, you can purchase your own bag of clay from us- we currently use a Midfire White from Minnesota Clay and a 25lb bag costs $60 (starting January 1st, 2025) which includes unlimited firings and access to all of our glazes.

• Members have unlimited access to the space at no extra charge. If you are not a member, each visit will cost $5 (after your first free visit).

The Clay Cavern is located in the basement of the Austin ArtWorks Center and is shared studio and class space.

How does it work?

• Drop in during our Wednesday Open Clay Studio to get a tour and a guide to getting started in ceramics.

• Previous experience, or a recent class in wheel throwing is required to throw on the wheel. No previous experience necessary for handbuilding.

• The first visit is free and includes a 1lb ball of clay, so you can try it out and feel if the space is right for you.

• From there, you can purchase your own bag of clay from us- we currently use a Midfire White from Minnesota Clay and a 25lb bag costs $60 (starting January 1st, 2025) which includes unlimited firings and access to all of our glazes.

• Members have unlimited access to the space at no extra charge. If you are not a member, each visit will cost $5 (after your first free visit).

You are invited to view this special gallery show, presented March 27 - June 5, in honor and memory of two beloved Austin Area Arts supporters and friends.