OJAI: GOING TO POTTERS

From its very inception, the arts and artists have been at the core of Ojai. The "Mama of Dada" Beatrice Woods brought ceramic arts to Ojai nearly 100 years ago. Since then, Ojai has been a magnet to potters and sculptors from all over the world, and has hosted some finest — and most innovative — shows in the country.

Looking for a true hands-on Ojai experience? Firestick, surrounded by citrus groves on the East End, is artistic home to more than 50 students, professionals and apprentices, many of whom sell their wares at the studio. The studio also offers one-time, 2-hour classes to visitors nine times a week.

Would-be potters can learn to “throw on the wheel,” or can specifically arrange a hand-building or sculpting class. Classes begin with a tour of the studio and an explanation of the pottery-making process. They are limited to eight people, ages seven and up (four and up for hand-building) and are taught by professional potters.

After visitors make their five pieces, the select the ones they want to have “finished.” Finishing (which costs $15 per piece) means trimming, bisque-firing, glazing and high-firing — and takes about three weeks. Students may pick their own glaze colors, or even come back to do their own glazing. They may be picked up a week after that or shipped any place in the country.

Firestick Pottery is located at 1804 E. Ojai Ave, and is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily. Classes are $55 per person, offered every day and twice on Saturdays and Sundays. Call 805-272-8760 for reservations or go to the FirestickPottery.com.