Hawaii Potters Guild

So much love, appreciation, and gratitude for this space, people, and the creative energy. My very first class is coming to an end and I am currently reflecting on my experience here. I was motivated to take a pottery class this summer after feeling a bit uninspired from a grueling school year on the mainland. Creating art is an awesome form of stress relief and such a great way to challenge yourself. As a first time student, it can be very challenging to get into a class at HPG. You submit an application and must be picked from a lottery. Look on their website for detailed instructions on how and when to submit your application. Submit your papers at the studio and on-time! There are no exceptions for late applications. I was lucky enough to get into a Monday evening class on the wheel. Classes are 3 hours long and our instructor was great. Every week we went over a new style, technique, or concept. Also, the classes are for all levels of potters. There were people who had never thrown clay before to people who have been doing this for years. Students have access to the guild during the week to come in and work on their projects as well! Clay is purchased from the guild and tools are also available for purchase. Everyone in the studio is extremely helpful and very willing to teach. Over this summer I've learned so much from not only my teacher, but also my peers. The community of artists at the Hawaii Potter's Guild is truly a unique group that cultivates a love and passion for creating. This is definitely not a goodbye HPG, but a see you soon.

So I'm a new student here and thought I would tell a little bit about HPG. Hawaii Potter's Guild is an all volunteer 501(c)3 nonprofit organization committed to the support and development of ceramic arts. Founded in 1967 by a group of potters to create an active community center to "experience clay". HPG has grown into a thriving ceramics studio for all ranges, from beginner to expert. Ok, so now my review, incredible... HPG is located right under the East bound H1 on ramp from University Ave. right next to the preschool. This tucked away little Gem has a deceptively good amount of work space, to include a wheel area with a bunch of throwing wheels, a glazing area, a nice large kiln and a tranquil little garden to boot. Each person I meet seems to be nicer and more accommodating then the last. As far as instructors haven't met one that hasn't bent over backwards to answer even the most basic questions. Basically a great place for an aspiring potter or just a curious one to come and learn about and enjoy ceramics. Enjoy... Tips: Check out the website, swing by during studio hours and just talk to people, wear a apron...

A volunteer-run, non-profit organization committed to educating the public on the ceramic arts. This cozy little pottery guild is tucked away on Bingham Street near the church. I sped by this place for years and finally discovered them one day participating at the Empty Bowls fundraiser. Classes generally take place quarterly, but you've got to keep an eye on them--they fill up fast! I am currently taking the beginner level throwing class. The instructor, Gerald Toyama, is patient and always there to help his students. He shares his tips and tricks and is great at providing alternative methods to achieve the same effect.The members of the guild are very friendly and supportive.So far, I've really enjoyed my experience at this guild and am looking forward to taking many more classes with them.

Art is a refuge, said Nabakov, and this place space and people is wonderful. It's ironic that such a relaxing environment is under the freeway. I believe it is all of the good clear minds that have created such a calm atmosphere.