Can working with clay lighten your load?
Yes, says a recent study profiled in Psychology Today. Researchers found that people who worked with clay were less depressed, and they discovered an improvement in their overall sense of well-being.
They also have marked improvements in motivation, mood, and decision-making.
Where can you get some of this mood-boosting clay time, locally?
Right over on the Westside, at Costa Mesa Ceramics.
Owner and founder, Lauren Pedersen, has created a totally groovy community space where you can play with clay — and make some gorgeous art, too.
Photo: Samantha Chagollan
Lauren Pedersen, Owner of Costa Mesa Ceramics, in her Westside Studio.
“We’re where you come to get creative and get your hands dirty,” Lauren laughs.
“Working with clay is very meditative. It’s an organic material so you actually feel connected to it. Even if you create something really wonky and weird, it’s still really nice to hunker down, get out of your head, and into your own world. You can work through a bad day with the clay — it’s so good for you in tons of different ways.”
Many of the folks who come into Costa Mesa Ceramics are looking for some stress relief, and they seem to find it once they dig into the clay.
“It’s really fun to feel accomplished when you see your piece come through the final stage,” says Lauren. “It’s so exciting — almost like Christmas, every time!”
Offering both private and group lessons, in wheel-throwing and hand-building, this Westside ceramic studio is filled with natural light and a chill, welcoming vibe. So even if you’ve never played with clay, you’ll feel right at home.
“All of our classes are geared towards beginners,” says Lauren, “Every instructor has a different style. You should come try it!”
“You Should Come Try It!” Says Lauren Pedersen, Costa Mesa Ceramics, in Westside Costa Mesa.
Photos: Samantha Chagollan
I’m actually dying to stick my hands into one of the nearby blocks of clay. While I’ve played around with ceramics before, I never got into throwing or hand-building. It looks fun.
There’s a group class going on in the front of the studio, and I can hear them chatting and laughing as they work on their fledgling pieces. It sounds more like a Sunday brunch than a serious art class.
There are one-off workshops, and longer, six-week courses where you can really dig into learning the art of ceramics. If you go for a six-week course, like “Introductory Wheel-Throwing” or “Hand-Building 101,” you’ll get extra studio time to come in and practice in between classes.
“Practice is key!” says Lauren, and I believe it. Especially in this gorgeous, open, light-filled space. Who wouldn’t want to spend lots of time here?
Costa Mesa Ceramics also offers open studio time, so seasoned ceramicists always have a spot to work and be amongst friends.
Costa Mesa Ceramics: Fueled by the vision of a creative, community space coming together.
Photos: Samantha Chagollan
“We’ve been open about two and a half years,” says Lauren. “I think my favorite part has been connecting with all of the local people who’ve discovered us along the way.”
Lauren was born and raised in Costa Mesa, so when it came time to make her dream of creating a studio space a reality, she just knew it had to be here. “There are a lot of great, creative people and I’m really excited to see what the younger generations are doing with their new businesses!”
She first found her love of ceramics at Orange Coast College, but she’s studied art all over Orange County. Lauren loves living and working in Costa Mesa. She mentions her penchant for the nearby beaches and local trails, as well as favorite spots on the Mesa, like Daydream and Fermentation Farm.
“Right now, we’re doing some stuff with local shops like our dear friends over at Daydream,” says Lauren. “They have some of our pieces in their shop, but then they also use our pieces for service. We’re hoping to open an online store, soon.”
The studio is growing every day, and Lauren is excited about the future. She’s fueled by seeing her vision of a creative community space come together — and dreams of hosting more advanced workshops, plus special events.
“There are other awesome people out there that we haven’t even met yet,” she says. “When they walk through the door, we’ll be ready for them.”
In the meantime, Lauren is happy to keep the kiln fires burning for anyone who wants to learn and create.
“Even if you’re a little hesitant, or scared, or you think you’re not going to be any good at it — just give it a try! It’s super fun.”
I’m so in. Who’s ready to join me? ♥
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Find the schedule for upcoming classes and workshops HERE or sign up for their email newsletter to stay up-to-date. You can find Costa Mesa Ceramics on Instagram @costamesaceramics
