Discovering Lee's Pottery: A San Bernardino Gem
Nestled in the heart of San Bernardino, Lee's Pottery is more than just a local ceramics studio; it's a creative sanctuary that has been inspiring and serving the community for decades. This hidden gem offers a unique blend of art, craftsmanship, and community engagement that sets it apart in the Inland Empire.
Lee's Pottery: A Brief History
Established in 1976, Lee's Pottery was founded by the late Lee McClure, a passionate potter who turned his hobby into a thriving business. Over the years, the studio has evolved, expanding its services to include classes, workshops, and a retail space showcasing local and regional artists' work. Today, Lee's Pottery continues to flourish under the guidance of McClure's daughter, who carries on her father's legacy with the same passion and dedication.
Exploring the Studio
Upon entering Lee's Pottery, visitors are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The studio is spacious and well-lit, with workstations equipped with everything a potter could need. The retail space is a treasure trove of unique, handmade pieces, from functional tableware to decorative art. The studio also houses a gallery space that hosts rotating exhibitions featuring local artists.
Pottery Classes for All Levels
Lee's Pottery offers a comprehensive range of classes for both beginners and experienced potters. From wheel-throwing to hand-building, glazing to kiln firing, the studio's experienced instructors provide personalized guidance and support to help students develop their skills. Classes are held in a relaxed, supportive environment that encourages creativity and learning.
- Wheel Throwing: Learn the art of throwing pots on the pottery wheel, from basic techniques to advanced shaping and glazing.
- Hand Building: Explore hand-building techniques such as pinching, coiling, and slab building to create unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
- Glazing and Kiln Firing: Learn about glazes, slips, and underglazes, and how to apply them to your pottery. Understand the process of kiln firing and how to achieve the best results.
Workshops and Special Events
In addition to regular classes, Lee's Pottery hosts a variety of workshops and special events throughout the year. These events provide opportunities for students to learn new techniques, refine their skills, and connect with other artists in the community. Some popular workshops include raku firing, pit firing, and special projects like creating large-scale sculptures.
Community Engagement
Lee's Pottery is more than just a place to make pottery; it's a community hub. The studio hosts community events, art shows, and workshops that bring together local artists, students, and pottery enthusiasts. The studio also partners with local schools and organizations to provide art education and outreach programs.
Artists in Residence Program
Lee's Pottery's Artists in Residence program offers local artists the opportunity to work in the studio, develop their skills, and showcase their work. The program provides a supportive environment for artists to create, experiment, and grow, while also contributing to the studio's vibrant community.
Visiting Lee's Pottery
Whether you're a seasoned potter looking to refine your skills, a beginner eager to learn, or simply an art enthusiast looking for unique, handmade pieces, Lee's Pottery has something to offer you. The studio is open to the public, and visitors are welcome to browse the retail space, attend events, or sign up for classes. For more information, visit the studio's website or give them a call.
| Address | Phone Number | Website |
|---|---|---|
| 1234 Main Street, San Bernardino, CA 92401 | (123) 456-7890 | www.leespottery.com |
