Ceramics: Where Art Meets Functionality
Spinning into artwork. A member of the clay club throwing clay on a pottery wheel. The wheel is one of the many ways clay club members create their work. “We’ve had as many as 40 kids [attending clay club],” said Christine Enos.
Every Thursday afternoon, members of Clay Club can be found in room C202 pounding, carving, and sculpting mounds of clay.
Clay Club was created four years ago. Since the pandemic, the club has hit the ground running and has soared in popularity among students of all grades.
“We’ve had as many as 40 kids attending at once,” said Ms. Enos, the club’s advisor.
Enos is an art teacher in the building and loves all types of art, with ceramics being one of her favorites. In addition to running Clay Club, Enos advises the school’s chapter of National Art Honors Society (NAHS).
Complete creative freedom is given at every meeting. Clay Club advocates for self-guided work and members are encouraged to explore various techniques and designs.
Additionally, novice members are given the choice to complete projects directed by Enos. Members also participate in making the actual clay at the start of the school year.
Junior Bridget Mell has been one of the club’s most consistent attendees.
“I decided to join Clay Club because I’ve always loved ceramics and I wanted to get back into it,” Mell said. “My favorite part is definitely coming and hanging out with all the other kids that come here.”
Freshman Eleanor Vandeusen joined Clay Club this fall and enjoys it just as much.
“I’ve always been into ceramics so I thought this could be something to do that was fun after school,” said VanDeusen. “I like having fun and just sculpting whatever comes to mind.”
