Solar Ceramics Program Overview
UFM now offers the Solar Ceramics Program, which serves a variety of artistic interests, whether it is taking a UFM community enrichment ceramics class or stopping by to use our Ceramic Open Studio Monday through Friday when you’re feeling artsy.
The Solar Ceramics Program provides hands-on art experiences that help participants explore personal and collective stories through creative work, fostering connection, healing, and self-expression. Programming serves both youth and adults, individuals with disabilities, including neurodiversity, veterans, and community members of all ages. Through classes, workshops, and public art displays, the Solar Ceramics Program offers opportunities for skill-building, creative expression, and shared experiences in a space designed for community engagement.
UFM Community Enrichment Ceramics Classes
Beginning, intermediate, and advanced ceramics classes are now offered every semester in the Solar Ceramic Studio located in the Solar Addition at UFM Community Learning Center. Whether you are just getting started on the wheel or have years of experience, these classes will support your growth and development as an artist in a supportive community environment. Check out our current class offerings here à https://bit.ly/4sWTuf3
Ceramic Open Studio
The Ceramic Open Studio provides affordable, supervised studio access for individuals seeking independent practice time in a shared creative environment. This program supports artistic growth, community connection, and skill development by offering access to professional ceramic equipment in a welcoming setting.
Open Studio is designed for students, hobbyists, and emerging artists who already possess basic ceramics experience and can work independently with minimal instruction.
Studio Managers: Nicole Peters & Pedro Melendez
Total Wheels Available: 6
Program Type: Community Open Studio Access
Program Goals
Infinity Neurodiversity Symbol
- Increase community access to ceramics
- Provide affordable creative space
- Support artistic growth
- Encourage creative wellness
- Foster community connection
- Deliver neurodiverse affirming educational experiences
- Ensure accommodations for community members with disabilities
Open Studio Hours
- Monday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Open to Mindful Making UFM Students)
- Thursday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 10:30 AM — 4:30 PM
Studio access is offered on a drop-in basis, subject to wheel availability.
Rates & Fees
- Half Day Drop-In Rate: $10 per session/Cash Only (Up to 4 Hours)
- Kiln Deposit: $20 (refundable)
The kiln deposit is required from all patrons using studio kilns. This deposit will be refunded if the patron ends services with Solar Studio, provided no damage occurs to kiln furniture, shelves, elements, or kiln surfaces due to the patron’s negligence.
Deposits may be retained, in part or in full, to cover damage caused by:
- Glaze drips or runs on the shelves
- Use of unapproved or untested materials
- Clay explosions due to improper drying
If deposits have to be utilized to repair damage, patrons may not fire additional products until another deposit payment is made.
