Mind Clay Body: Handbuilding with Clay, 18+

with Susan Messer McBride

Wednesdays, 6–8pm
October 14–November 11

Non Member Tuition: $335
Member Tuition: $301.50
This class is FREE thanks to funding from the Town of Nantucket Human Services Department as part of the Wellness Though the Arts Program. (Discount automatically applied at checkout)

Course Description

Join the 2026 Erin Donohue and Family Ceramic Artist in Residence, Susan McBride, in this wonderful class!

Discover the creative potential of clay through an exploration of foundational handbuilding techniques. This studio-based course introduces students to pinch, coil, slab, and sculptural construction methods while building an understanding of clay’s unique properties and ceramic processes. The tactile nature of working with clay encourages focus, curiosity, and a deeper awareness of the relationship between mind, body, and material. Through a combination of guided projects and independent exploration, participants will develop technical skills, investigate form and surface, and create both functional and sculptural works in clay. Suitable for beginners and returning students alike, this class offers an engaging introduction to handbuilt ceramics in a supportive studio environment.

OPEN STUDIO TIME Additional studio hours are available to adult students who are registered for a class to practice the skills you have learned.

Cancellation Policy

AAN depends upon student tuition to continue to offer classes and workshops. Due to our commitment to small class sizes and the hands-on nature of art education, we are greatly impacted by cancellations. Nevertheless, we do understand that plans change. If you need to cancel your reservation for a class or workshop, please note our cancellation/refund policy here and let us know as soon as possible.

Materials

All materials provided.

Susan Messer McBride

Susan Messer McBride of Mind Clay Body Studio unearthed her passion for clay after receiving a Master's in Education/Social Policy from Northwestern University. A Chicago based educator, ceramic artist, and painter, Susan has taught in the United States, China, Kenya, and Mexico. She is certified in Clay Field Therapy, a haptic-based, sensorimotor intervention that heals trauma or developmental delays, and in the Community Resilience Model, a somatic-based self care set of skills. McBride crafts pots inspired by the intersection of natural and urban environments and finds purpose and peace through ceramic work. Wood firing and studio affiliations include Barro Sur, Made Chicago, River Song Pottery, Taller de Terreno, and Theaster Gates Studio.

Full Artist Profile