by Mary E. Knippel

Margaret Tassi, owner of Clay Creations. Photos: Mary E. Knippel.

If you are in search of a fun, family-friendly activity, wander into Pacifica’s Clay Creations and discover your very own clay experience. “We’ve been around for a long time,” said Margaret Tassi, owner of Clay Creations, “but people may only know us as a painting studio. Little by little, we’ve evolved and our focus has changed to clay. We have experienced ceramicists who are producing beautiful work here — and now with the gallery space, the public can shop here and get some wonderful things.”

As a hotel and restaurant management student and eventually the owner of a catering business, Tassi loved the display and the artistic side of things, but when children came into the picture she soon realized that catering wasn’t the business for her. “Over time,” Tassi said, “I started taking some classes myself, and discovered clay was my real passion. Now, it’s all about the clay.”

Model sculptures by students.

Clay Creations has ongoing classes for adults and children, as well as special demonstration workshops featuring guest instructors — and also hosts birthday parties. Another option is to become a member, paying a monthly fee for access to the studio space. “I’d like to think that we are an artist community where members join together but work independently, sharing their energy and ideas like a co-op,” Tassi said.

“You don’t have to be artistic,” said Jen Wenger from behind a spinning pottery wheel. “It’s also a very technical thing to do, and once you learn the technique it’s very therapeutic. I love it!”

Jen Wenger working on her technique.

“It’s very meditative,” Linda Heller- Dunphy said, without looking up as she massaged damp clay into a casserole shape. “Margaret makes it look so easy. Pottery is like life: You have to make mistakes, and you learn from them when you do.”

Clay Creations hosts several events throughout the year that are open to the public. On Friday, April 15, from 7-9 p.m., adult members will exhibit their many styles at a pottery sale and art show. The free event also includes music and refreshments. The pottery sale will continue through Saturday and Sunday. A kids’ art show is slated for May 20, from 6-9 p.m.

A Bay Area Raku Festival will take place at Clay Creations on May 22. For a nominal fee, festival attendees may have their pieces fired with a specific ceramic firing process, which uses both fire and smoke to create unique patterns and designs.

Finished pieces for sale in the gallery.

Students may choose a single experience or sign up for a series, learn the nuances of wheel throwing with 12 wheels available, participate in a classical six-week sculpture series using a live model, or explore the art of mosaics. For more information on classes, workshops, special events, memberships or open studio hours, visit the Clay Creations website.