Community Gathers for Open House at Renovated Clay Studio

Artspace Greenfield is set to host a celebratory open house for its newly renovated clay studio on November 16, 2025. Located at 15 Mill St. in Greenfield, the event invites community members to explore the updated facilities, learn about ongoing programs, and view the current art gallery exhibition.

From 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., visitors can take guided tours of the studio and other renovated areas, as well as enjoy refreshments. According to Madeline Miller, director of Artspace Greenfield, this gathering is an opportunity for the community to celebrate their contributions to the renovation project.

Last spring, Artspace successfully raised $112,905, surpassing its initial goal of $100,000, to establish the clay studio. Major renovations included improvements to electrical systems, plumbing, and HVAC to accommodate the new facilities, which feature a clay studio, kiln room, and an upstairs art studio.

Since reopening in mid-September, the studio has attracted approximately 50 students per week for various art classes. In just one six- to seven-week session, the studio can utilize up to 1,000 pounds of clay. Artspace has also expanded its team, hiring seven new instructors and a kiln technician to offer a diverse range of handbuilding and wheel throwing classes for all ages.

Miller expressed enthusiasm for future developments, stating that the team is brainstorming ways to enhance the clay program. Plans include introducing one-off sessions to increase accessibility and collaborating with local organizations to engage different community groups. “We’re really wanting to explore two-day workshops, drop-ins, or something that’s just one Saturday afternoon for accessibility,” Miller noted.

The transformation of Artspace follows a shift from its original focus on music education. With the departure of its music program to the Pioneer Valley Symphony, Miller sees the clay studio as a new avenue for community engagement. “There’s a lot of interest in the community and a longing to be with other people, making art, getting dirty and learning something new and challenging,” she explained.

Clay instructor Danielle Lucier highlighted the appeal of working with clay. She noted that many students find the tactile experience calming and rewarding, often returning to hone their skills. “It has this addicting quality to it … It always pulls you in and just invites you to continuously learn,” Lucier said.

The initial weeks in the renovated studio have been marked by a vibrant atmosphere, with students creating a variety of works, from teacups to whimsical sculptures. Lucier remarked on the high energy among students eager to express their creativity.

In addition to its clay programming, Artspace will maintain its other artistic initiatives, such as the After School Art Program and the monthly Felting Club. Upcoming events include a class on linocut stamp making scheduled for November 19, 2025.

With the clay studio now occupying the lower workroom, other visual arts programs have been relocated to a newly renovated upstairs studio. Miller emphasized the importance of providing a space for diverse forms of creativity, made possible through community support, including donations and volunteer efforts. “We’re really, really happy to be able to be using this space for art education,” she said.

Attendance at the open house is free, although guests are encouraged to register in advance. For further details or to register, visit the Artspace Greenfield website.