OUT AND ABOUT / THE CLAYHOUSE : Invitation to the Potter’s Wheel

For some, it’s a hobby. For others it’s a livelihood. Yet both groups come together at the Clayhouse, a small ceramics studio nestled among the shops and restaurants of Santa Monica Boulevard in Santa Monica.

Since the 1970s when it had wide appeal, pottery’s popularity has had more than a few downturns. In recent years, however, the art form has had a resurgence of sorts--thanks, in part, to studios such as the Clayhouse.

The Clayhouse combines technical knowledge and convenience. Besides selling supplies, owners Natalie Neith and Ken Catbagan have dedicated themselves to providing a home for ceramic artists.

“It gives you an opportunity to develop your artwork,” said Lorri Herlihy of Thousand Oaks, who has used the studio for more than a decade. “I like the camaraderie and inspiration (that comes) from the other artists.”

Neith and Catbagan, who both share artistic backgrounds and have taught extensively, set out more than a decade ago to open a store where they could sell clay. That goal had seemed nearly unattainable until a woman who owned and operated the Westside’s only clay store decided to sell her business to the pair.

The couple then set to work on renovating the nearly 5,000-square-foot space, which would later function not only as a place to buy tools, supplies and equipment, but also as a studio where artists could rent space to work.

The Clayhouse also offers beginning and advanced wheelwork classes in which students learn how to use the potter’s wheel to make items such as cups, bowls, pitchers and plates. Additionally, they sponsor a “handbuilding” course that lets students create functional and sculptural shapes in clay without use of the wheel.

Classes cost $210 for wheelwork and $198 for handbuilding; both consist of six sessions and are offered on an ongoing basis. The fee includes initial supplies and firing as well as unlimited access to the studio during the course, plus an additional week to complete projects. Enrollment is limited to 10 students per class to ensure individual instruction.

Working with clay “shows you your faults and strong points (as a person),” said instructor Kweli Walker, who received a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Loyola Marymount University. “It forces you to be brave and to be the boss.”

The Clayhouse, 2909 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Information: (310) 828-7071.