Glen Echo Pottery is a haven for individual creativity, and that ethic is reflected in the variety of expressions of clay you will see throughout the studio.  

Each of us at the Pottery is uniquely inspired by our traditions, imaginations, dreams, relationships, and passions. The process is dynamic: while often frustrating, it can be deeply satisfying to create a work reflective of our own concept. It is joyful to play with clay in the relaxed and friendly camaraderie  of the studio among student artists from many different cultures, professions, and levels of experience. 

The spirit of the Pottery emanates from the respect for each individual's talents, needs and expressions. As the resident artist, it is my goal to foster that spirit by teaching my students the skills that enable them to put shape to their unique visions. In this accepting atmosphere, we can appreciate the beauty of each other's different expressions in clay. Just as our pottery brings us in touch with the basic elements - earth, fire, water and air - it brings us in touch with ourselves. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Jeff Kirk, Artistic Director

​

Mission, Vision & Values

​
MISSION
Our mission is to build and sustain a strong, inclusive ceramic arts community focused on both individual learning and collaborative pursuits of excellence in clay. Anchoring our programs with solid instruction and inspiration, we strive to create opportunities for all participants to share their skills, artistry, and joy with others within and beyond the bounds of our studio.

VISION
Our vision is a pottery community where every student has space and opportunity to be an artist, a mentor, and a partner in learning and sharing the rich traditional and complex dimensions of a ceramic process.

VALUES
​We are small in space but BIG in community. We welcome all skill levels, thrive on collaboration, and invite active participation in virtually every component of pottery-making
​*  We are potters who care and share. Our class format, generous open studio time, and team-based activities provide non-stop opportunities for mentoring and the exchange of ideas.
​* We are a refuge and resource for creativity. We encourage individual exploration and experimentation and support students to work independently to pursue their pottery goals.
​* We are committed to expanding diversity of populations and communities we serve with learning opportunities through  (a) community partnership-based Darby Fund programs focused on underserved youth, (b) year-round adult and teen classes, affordably priced classes and workshops and gallery exhibitions, and (c) drop-in, hands-on art activities during Glen Echo Park Partnerships for the Arts & Culture's major public events. 

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access (DEIA)

Glen Echo Pottery does not and shall not discriminate in any of its activities or programming on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, political opinion or affiliation or any other characteristic protected by law.
 
“The Pottery is committed to an environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.  Each individual student, instructor, staff, and volunteer has the right to learn, work, and create in an atmosphere that promotes equal opportunity and prohibits unlawful discriminatory practices, including harassment.  The Pottery expects all relationships to be respectful, courteous, and free of discrimination.