By Sam Hurst

A porcelain cup inspired by Chinese porcelain, sculpted by Mary Katherine Brost (’24).

Are you looking to dive into the world of artistry in an easygoing and informative setting? Look no further! The Ceramics I course at Collegiate, led by Upper School ceramics teacher Mary Arzt, enriches students with the basics of ceramics and allows them to create pottery that will last a lifetime. This course is one of the many art courses taught at Collegiate and spans a semester. It serves as an introductory class covering the fundamentals of ceramics, including ceramic technique and history.  

I was lucky enough to step into a class and experience a typical class period. When I first walked in, I was met with many messy tables strewn with tools, plates, projects, and more. The scene resembled Santa’s workshop, with students diligently working on an assortment of diverse projects. Arzt assumed the role of Mrs. Claus to the little elves in the workshop, as students approached her with questions. The students also seemed to be working on countless different projects. Junior Keigan Hayes (‘25), was working on crafting his final project—a bowl. Meanwhile, Nash Craig (‘24) was putting the finishing touches on a teacup he had been working on. 

As I toured the class, I asked many questions about various aspects of the course and the ongoing projects. The students showed remarkable enthusiasm for the class and did not seem burdened by the workload. Ana Tornabene (‘27) said, “Mrs. Arzt always gives us time to finish our work and even lets us work on our own projects.” Glancing around the room, I noticed students working on projects for personal enjoyment, such as Christmas ornaments and animals. Sam Hahn (‘25), said, “I enjoy being able to test my creativity on many different projects, especially ones of my own.” 

Throughout the semester, Arzt instructs the students on a variety of different projects. She instructs her students to “not only learn basic skills but the meaning of good craftsmanship.” One of these is a practical project—crafting a ceramic piece suitable for everyday use at home. Their project involved using a mold to shape a plate with a couplet on the back. Craig says he has “eaten multiple family dinners” using his plate and even has used it in the microwave. Arzt says that, “The plates honor David Drake, an enslaved potter who signed some of his work and wrote couplets, even though it was against the law. This is why students incised couplets on their plates.” 

As the semester progresses, the students engage in at least three additional projects, one of which involves creating agateware mugs, referencing an 18th century technique. These mugs have intricate patterns and are glazed, making them not only beautiful but perfect for hot beverages like coffee or hot chocolate. 

Projects do not take up the entirety of the class, allowing students to learn from guest artists, such as Al Pellenberg and Tracy Shell. These speakers shared valuable insight into their lives as pottery makers and introduced students to various projects. 

Agateware mug by Nash Craig (’24).

Students were also taught to “throw” moist clay on the potter’s wheel. Using the wheel, students crafted round pieces that could not be made otherwise. Matthew Zandler (‘27) appreciates the “freedom and ease of the wheel” and describes the process as “satisfying.” 

As my visit to Ceramics I drew to a close, Arzt announced that it was time to clean up. In a synchronized effort, students of all grades, Freshmen to Seniors, diligently worked together to tidy up the studio. Though I had only been there for around 50 minutes, I could already start to feel a sense of camaraderie in the class. Under Arzt’s guidance, the Ceramics I course serves as a space where students can strengthen their creativity, understand craftsmanship, and enhance pottery skills in a stress-free environment. 

Beyond teaching the fundamentals of and history of ceramics, the course encourages students to explore their own creative endeavors and create their own projects.

All photos by Sam Hurst.