Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Seattle, WA

North America

United States

# Pottery Northwest – Pottery and Ceramics School in Seattle, WA
Pottery Northwest, located in Seattle, WA, is a vibrant pottery and ceramics school that offers a unique blend of artistic education and community engagement. Established with a vision to foster creativity, this studio not only provides pottery classes but also serves as a ceramics art gallery. With a strong emphasis on accessibility, Pottery Northwest offers programs for low-income and BIPOC individuals, ensuring that art is inclusive and available to all. The studio is known for its welcoming atmosphere, skilled instructors, and a diverse range of classes that cater to both beginners and experienced potters. Community reviews highlight the supportive environment and the opportunity for hands-on learning, making it a cherished space for ceramic enthusiasts.

## History
### The story of Pottery Northwest
Pottery Northwest was founded with the vision of creating a community hub for ceramic arts, where individuals of all skill levels could come together to learn and create. The founders aimed to establish a space that not only provided quality pottery instruction but also fostered a sense of belonging and creativity among its members. Over the years, Pottery Northwest has evolved into a respected institution within the Seattle arts scene, known for its commitment to education and community involvement.

### Milestones and growth
- Established as a pottery school and gallery in Seattle.
- Introduced programs offering free tuition for low-income and BIPOC individuals.
- Expanded class offerings to include a variety of pottery techniques and styles.
- Developed partnerships with local artists and organizations to enhance community engagement.
- Hosted numerous events, workshops, and exhibitions showcasing student and resident artists' work.

### Cultural and local influence
Pottery Northwest has significantly influenced Seattle's cultural landscape by promoting the arts and providing a platform for local artists. The studio's commitment to community involvement has led to collaborations with schools, non-profits, and other cultural organizations, enriching the local arts scene. By offering accessible pottery classes and workshops, Pottery Northwest has helped cultivate a new generation of ceramic artists, contributing to the city's vibrant artistic community.

### Continuing the tradition
Today, Pottery Northwest continues to uphold its founding principles by offering a diverse range of classes and workshops that cater to all skill levels. The studio remains dedicated to fostering creativity and community through pottery, ensuring that the tradition of ceramic arts thrives in Seattle. With ongoing support for underrepresented groups and a focus on inclusivity, Pottery Northwest is committed to making pottery accessible to everyone.

## Community
### Community involvement
Pottery Northwest actively engages with the local community by offering various programs and events that encourage participation in the arts. The studio hosts workshops, lectures, and exhibitions that not only showcase the work of its students and resident artists but also invite the public to explore the world of ceramics. This commitment to community involvement helps to foster a sense of belonging and encourages collaboration among artists and enthusiasts.

### Community notion about the place
The community perception of Pottery Northwest is overwhelmingly positive, with many individuals praising its welcoming atmosphere and supportive environment. Reviews highlight the friendly staff and instructors who are dedicated to helping students succeed in their pottery journey. The studio is seen as a valuable resource for those looking to explore their creativity and connect with like-minded individuals, making it a beloved part of Seattle's artistic community.

### Events and gatherings
Pottery Northwest regularly hosts events and gatherings that bring together artists, students, and the community. These events include open houses, pottery sales, and exhibitions featuring student work, allowing participants to showcase their creations and connect with others. The studio also organizes special workshops and guest artist lectures, providing opportunities for learning and inspiration within the ceramic arts community.

## Offerings
### What Pottery Northwest offers
Pottery Northwest provides a comprehensive range of offerings, including classes, workshops, and open studio access for individuals interested in exploring the art of ceramics. The studio's curriculum is designed to cater to all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced potters looking to refine their techniques. With a focus on hands-on learning, students are encouraged to experiment and develop their unique artistic voice.

### Dining and food experience
While Pottery Northwest primarily focuses on pottery and ceramics, it does not offer dining services. However, the studio's location in Seattle allows easy access to a variety of nearby dining options, making it convenient for students and visitors to enjoy a meal before or after their pottery sessions.

### Events and packages
Pottery Northwest offers various events and packages tailored to different interests and skill levels. These include special workshops, date night experiences, and community events that allow participants to engage with pottery in a fun and interactive way. The studio's flexibility in scheduling and diverse offerings make it an attractive option for those looking to explore ceramics in a supportive environment.

### Facilities and features
- Well-equipped pottery studio with wheels and tools
- Open studio access for enrolled students
- Resident artist program for ongoing learning
- Exhibition space for showcasing student and artist work
- Community events and workshops throughout the year

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Pottery Northwest reveal a mix of experiences, highlighting both the strengths and areas for improvement within the studio. Many students appreciate the supportive environment and the quality of instruction, while some express concerns about class sizes and individual attention from instructors.

### Compliments and strengths
- Supportive and friendly instructors who provide valuable feedback.
- Diverse class offerings catering to various skill levels.
- Community-oriented atmosphere that fosters creativity and collaboration.
- Opportunities for hands-on learning and experimentation.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Some reviews mention challenges related to class sizes, with larger classes making it difficult for instructors to provide individualized attention. Additionally, while many students appreciate the community aspect, a few have noted that cleanliness can vary depending on the number of users in the studio. Overall, the positive experiences tend to outweigh the negatives, with many students expressing a strong desire to return.

### Summary evaluation
In summary, Pottery Northwest is a well-regarded pottery and ceramics school that offers a welcoming and supportive environment for artists of all skill levels. While there are some areas for improvement, the overall community sentiment is positive, with many students praising the quality of instruction and the sense of belonging fostered within the studio.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Pottery Northwest is conveniently located at 226 1st Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, in the heart of Seattle's vibrant arts district. The studio is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a convenient destination for both locals and visitors. The surrounding neighborhood is rich in cultural attractions, including galleries, theaters, and parks, providing ample opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Visitors can easily spend a day immersing themselves in the arts and culture that Seattle has to offer, making Pottery Northwest a perfect starting point for a creative adventure.

## FAQs
**What classes are offered at Pottery Northwest** Pottery Northwest offers a variety of pottery classes for all skill levels, including wheel throwing and handbuilding.

**Is there parking available at Pottery Northwest** Parking is limited; it's recommended to use public transportation or arrive early for street parking.

**Can I visit the gallery without taking a class** Yes, the gallery is open to the public for viewing and purchasing artwork.

**Are there any programs for low-income individuals** Yes, Pottery Northwest offers free tuition for low-income and BIPOC first-time students.

**What is the duration of the classes** Classes typically last for 10 weeks, meeting once a week for a couple of hours.

## Visit Pottery Northwest Today
Pottery Northwest invites you to explore the world of ceramics in a friendly and creative environment. With a rich history of community involvement and a diverse range of classes, this pottery school is dedicated to fostering artistic expression and collaboration. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced potter, you'll find a welcoming space to learn, create, and connect with others. Come and discover the joy of pottery at Pottery Northwest!

e4bad138-ed91-463c-9ba6-c0cde3c744f8

Had a great date night here making a ramen bowl in a class with a group of people. Class was about twelve individuals but the lone instructor did a great job of explaining and demonstrating how to make the bowl from clay. Instructor was also available for one-on-one attention if you had questions or needed extra assistance. Fun experience in a loft workspace above the downstairs art gallery. Very busy with other classes and individuals all working on their projects. Parking is on your own. If you know downtown Seattle, then be prepared to give yourself extra time to find on street parking or a lot that's not full. Use transit if you can!

b72c457f-295d-4ee5-8bf7-582539b4ff36

It was great to meet Ed King - the Executive Director of Pottery Northwest. It brought back memories of my pot throwing days. In the present, Ed Created the cups displayed. Ed's work gave me an idea. Hey, activities/life enrichment directors, would your residents like to create something from clay? Why not reach out to Pottery Northwest!

d79ff78f-915b-4bdf-a2b9-67b0e45ef6dd

A lot of the reviews here are dated, so I thought I'd give some insight. I signed up for How To Throw Your Day Away during Summer Quarter 2023. Pottery Northwest gives the a possibility of free tuition for low income, BIPOC first timers, and I was lucky and grateful to be chosen. I think this is incredible to offer and I haven't heard of any other studios doing this for the community. This is my first time taking real pottery instruction at a class/studio. I used to take 3D design (handbuilding; clay without the wheel) in high school, in addition to some wheel instruction; nothing so thorough as this. The studio is approachable, the instruction is insightful and my instructor, Becca, is a delight to work with. Even though I'm quiet and introverted, she will chime in and either compliment what I'm doing, give instruction on what I can improve on, or tell me to stop overworking my piece. This feedback is essential. She checks in with all of her students and is very hands on, which is appreciated when working with this medium. She is also patient and breaks down each step in a way a beginner like me can understand, both visually and verbally. I cannot recommend her enough. There are many different instructors with their own styles of teaching. You may find that Becca may not be to your taste, or you may find the instructor you go with may not be to your taste after the fact. A friend of mine had this issue as her instructor had more of a "professor" type approach, which she did not click with. It would be wise to do your research and reach out if you can, or read their profiles on their website if you intend on taking classes. Classes are quarterly and last 10 weeks, and each class is a couple of hours. The class meets once a week. Within those 10 weeks you have unlimited access to the studio, which is something you should absolutely utilize to improve and get the most out of your classes. It is a learning curve, and can be a steep one. Those first few weeks are crucial. I enjoy the creative atmosphere of the studio and everyone I have seen and interacted with is kind, respectful of others' space, and pleasant to work with or around. It's addicting, being here. Shouldn't be hard to get those hours in. I honestly can't think of one bad thing about this studio, aside from the fact that some students/artists are cleaner than others. Which isn't even bad--just something to note. You may find the wedging table dirty or, upon closer inspection, the wheel you chose still has the bat screws on or is dirtier than it should be. I feel like these are pretty normal things to encounter when opting for a community studio, though everyone does chip in to clean their area and you get very clear instructions during orientation regarding the ways of the studio. They set the bar high for cleaning standard to minimize harmful dust and have professional cleaner come in every so often. But keep in mind, it is a community studio and it's impossible to keep spotless. Also, the area the studio resides in isn't the best. The bus stop right in front of the building the studio resides in is sketchy-- I've seen people tweaking out of their minds, full wang pissing on a pole, yelling, harassing, and screaming. I had to get between a tweaker and my then-partner as he was harassing her, speaking garbled nonsense. It was uncomfortable but I didn't feel like I was in danger, necessarily. Many places in Seattle are like this now. That's not the studio's fault and has nothing to do with the studio. I only mention this to keep in mind if you intend to take public transportation; Keep vigilant. There isn't much in the way of free parking either. On Sundays, however, the front of the building the studio resides in is free game, so if you have an early Sunday class you might get lucky with a spot to claim. Another thing to consider: this studio only allows you to work with their clay (they have a few types to choose from) and glaze. This is fine by me and it makes sense why it would be this way. You may not think so. Over all, I learned a lot, and made a few pieces I'm actually proud of. Being my own worst critic, that is saying a lot. It would have taken me a lot longer to learn everything I did on my own than in the span of a few weeks time at Pottery Northwest. I would give 10 stars if I could. I really enjoyed my time here and I absolutely love ceramics. I could one day see this being a career and would love to take their apprenticeship one day. If you're on the fence, let this be the universes way of telling you that life is short and you should absolutely go for it. Take the classes. Make all the things. And most importantly, have fun.

c68cebfe-813f-47f5-862c-47b865bfb3d5

Pottery Northwest is a Pottery & Ceramics School as well as a Ceramics Art Gallery. I haven't taken a class here, but the facilities look great and the staff was super friendly and helpful.

2295357b-876a-48b4-a0fb-392c3ec17cae

I took "Welcome to the Wheel" with Liz in Winter 2015. It would have never crossed my mind to take pottery, but someone who I admire mentioned to me that she had found pottery to be helpful to her as an artist and an entrepreneur. Ever since moving to Seattle, I'm all about trying new things, and I figured I would give it a shot. Pottery is not a three-hour a week kind of class, especially you are a beginner. If you want to produce work, you need to spend closer to six hours a week working on the craft. Make sure you have the time to come twice a week before you sign up for a "Welcome" class. A lot of people disappeared halfway through the semester; I think the amount of time needed was just too much for their schedules. Despite being a "Welcome to the Wheel" class, I'd say about half of the twenty-person class had previous pottery experience, and the other half had background in fine art. I was the exception. I had never taken art class in my life, not even when I was a child. I think we had one year of art class in the 7th grade, that's it. Nothing in high school, nothing in college. I was like a fish out of water. Pottery is a difficult. It takes patience. Luckily, people who are doing their own projects at Pottery Northwest are usually generous if you ask for assistance. However, everyone has a different way they've learned for centering and pulling clay; in the short-term you might be doing yourself a disservice to learn three different methods at the same time! Liz is a good instructor - her greatest virtue is composure, she puts you at ease when she works with you. However because the class is large, about eighteen people, you might only get ten minutes with her 1-on-1 for help. The way class usually worked, she'll spend forty-five minutes to an hour giving a demonstration on something, like how to make a plate, and then let people go off on their own to try to do it. The problem is that she is teaching to "the middle" - those in the class who are skilled enough at the basics to attempt something like a plate. For a beginner like myself, most of the lessons were far too advanced for me to attempt as I was still trying to master centering. They were fun to see, but not helpful in my near-term development. Class at Pottery Northwest is more like an independent study with other people. Everyone's creating something different, it's not a class in a traditional sense where everyone is at the same level, learning the same thing at the same time. I think Pottery Northwest should have one class for absolute beginners, and another for people with some pottery experience, just so the absolute beginners can have more specialized instruction. There are some people who take "Welcome to the Wheel" a couple times. Also - remember to bring an apron, even on your first class! You'll thank me.

1af9509e-8c65-464c-9b38-9ba208db5e07

Everyone needs a good pottery studio. And everyone can go to pottery northwest and look around, take classes, get dirty, meet a potter, be a sculptor... you get the idea. There are not too many community studios left like this one. It also sponsors some pretty cool events such as lectures workshops and visiting artists. It brings people together under the general rubric that pottery is fun. Hoorah! As a resident artist, I am quite biased, however this is a place that makes you feel good about the fact there are people still coming together to learn how to make things and practice making them better. A community of ceramic artists is a cool thing. You should come down and check it out-- if just to walk around and see stuff you might not have seen yet...

d7013931-8af8-4262-8bea-6c10daa4c5bf

My wife got "date night" passes ($30/person) at Northwest Pottery to celebrate my birthday. This is a 3 hour option on a Friday night (possibly other times during the weekend as well), where you get a tour of the facility (including the exhibition area) and the work areas. Our instructor/facilitator for the day was Issac (artist-in-residence?). He went about explaining the basics of pottery, and also showed us made some sample pieces to give us a taste of how to go about it (you get to keep 3 pieces - which you will then pick up 2 weeks later). We were then left at our stations (with a motorized wheel, sponge, seat and clay) to work on own. It was all great so far. Now, pottery (like pretty much anything else) is not easy (at least not with just 45 minutes of prep), and many of us needed help. I noticed the instructor going around and helping a lot of people, but even after an hour he wasn't near my station. After feeling certain that he was not going to come around, I had to explicitly ask him for his help, but even that didn't get me much time/help. For whatever reason, the instructor decided to ignore a couple of us, and that left me very frustrated. This could've been a nice/fun experience, but it wasn't for me (and might not be for you, if you're among the few that get ignored), and hence this low rating. On a minor note, they don't give towels/paper napkins to the participants. Now, that's fine, and I would've got my own - except that we weren't informed about it. I'm mentioning this so that you remember to get your own towel incase you're reading this

1805152e-4fa8-4e35-9958-64dc8d6c59a2

Overpriced. They are a for profit business that resembles the common non-for-profit ceramics centers that are prevalent in most other cities. You're much better off going to the Community Centers or Seward park which certainly gives you more bang for your buck. Also when I talked to them on the phone they assured me their pricing was due to their apparent renown as a school however I hadn't heard of them when I was attending RIT.

ee99dd9f-6326-4168-9f9a-b94c6a5e449a

What a treasure this unique studio is. They offer classes in pottery and occasionally sculpture and when you take a class you can come in anytime there isn't another class in session and use the equipment to practice or produce pieces on your own. They host a rotating cast of resident artists and teachers. Always, clean and well organized.

a4ce7028-f4ed-4fa2-8399-3fac693a1f3b

Amazing studio, great environment, great teachers and free time for students to pursue their proyects. I discovered my love for Ceramics in this place and I go every opportunity I have. Must try.

Discover Pottery Northwest in Seattle, WA, a unique pottery studio offering creative workshops and handcrafted ceramics. Visit us today for an inspiring artistic experience.

Pottery Northwest in Seattle, WA | Creative Workshops & Ceramics

Seattle

Pottery Northwest

Washington

Explore the full menu at Pottery Northwest in Seattle, WA. Discover signature dishes, drinks & must-try items. Visit us at 226 1st Ave N, Seattle.

Pottery Northwest Menu – Food & Drinks in Seattle, WA

Learn about Pottery Northwest in Seattle, WA. Discover our mission, history, and what makes us a unique pottery studio and gallery in the city.

About Pottery Northwest, Seattle, WA

Opening hours for Pottery Northwest, Seattle, WA. Find opening hours for Pottery Northwest, Seattle, WA on 226 1st Ave N.

Pottery Northwest Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Pottery Northwest

Wing Stop

Florals & Gifts by FTD

Pho Viet Anh