The art studio has three locations, and I have visited this downtown store in the art district. They offer variety of classes here, from beginner level like one hour classes, to advanced sessions of hand building, wheel and glaze classes, and you can also book workshops and private parties. The staff here are super friendly, also patiently demonstrating the techniques. There is a parking lot to their rear entrance, very limited spots though, and you likely end up with street parking like I did for my few visits here. Overall, I'd certainly recommend this place to friends. read more

Took a lovely Sunday morning 1hr wheel throwing class to make a bowl with my friend. The instructor was kind, helpful, & clearly skilled in what she was teaching. Watching my admittedly slightly-off-center ball of clay spin on the wheel as I shaped it into a not-bad-for-a-first-time bowl was both mesmerizing & meditative. This totally made me want to sign up for a whole class series. My only slight recommendation for any change would be the seating arrangements. The stations were laid out in such a manner that there was no possibility other than to have 1 of the 5 pairs of folks that showed up for the fully-booked 10-person class to be split (not sitting next to each other). read more

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I had a great experience at this studio! I took the 4-week beginner wheel class in February, and it was fantastic. My beautiful teacher, Kelly, was incredibly helpful and always in a great mood, which made the class even more enjoyable. Everyone at the studio was also very friendly and welcoming. I'm definitely planning to continue taking more classes this year! read more

Still Life Ceramics Studio - Plate - Art Classes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Beautiful space in the Arts District of DTLA, they also have a location in Santa Monica as well. Easy to find lots of street parking nearby Studio space is huge tall ceiling, sunlight, large windows airy clean They have merch for supplies and finished work too, they even have 3D printing ceramics here Lots of members here working on their pieces, very quiet peaceful space to craft your art they have enthusiastic and experienced instructors that teaches the individual classes, private events, and progression courses I did the private yelp group event with hand building and then a $60 individual class on the basic of wheel throwing. It such a fun date activity and easy for families and kids of all ages too they have memberships here that varies base on sizes and number of pieces etc. lots of custom colors, textures and glazes to choose from here! read more

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This is the second time we've been here and the overall experience was frustrating. We came here for a company group craft club and the actual bowl making process and booking process was great. However, nobody ever contacted us to let us know our pieces were ready. We decided to walk in and found out the pieces were done (it's been 4 weeks). When we went through the bag, we found one persons bowl was missing. The phone number also doesn't have a live person answering so we aren't able to check what happened. So unfortunate as our team was really looking forward to this and the whole process following the class was ultimately very disappointing and it was terrible to deliver the news to one individual that their piece is missing when we paid so much per person. Update: we had to walk back a second time to ask where the missing bowl was since nobody was available via phone. The missing bowl had been set aside and was ready to go, it just wasn't packed with the rest of the pieces. Nonetheless, it was still a struggle to get a hold of someone and unfortunate that it took this review for someone to reach out. read more

If you are looking to revisit a nostalgic childhood experience then Still Life Ceramics will grant you that wish. When I came to Still Life I was looking for something. I couldn't quite put my finger on it but I felt it. As soon as sat down and Aiden + Kelly (instructors) explained what the class would be making, I immediately found what I was looking for. I discovered that we are all just children trying to get back to that timeless experience you can't put a price on. Like the flashback moment the food critic had in a Ratatouille! It went from making a simple pot to revisiting a core memory of being a kid and creating something from my imagination. And for that I say Still Life Ceramic's value cannot be measured by price. Do yourself a favor and check out Still Life Ceramics! read more

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I loveeeeeeee the month I spent with Still Life ceramics! I took their beginning wheel monthlong course and it came with access to the studio FOR THE WHOLE MONTH. i did not know this until the first class and was delighted at the idea of being able to make many pieces for a whole month. If youre thinking of doing a course, this is SO worth it. the classes are informative and the instructors are very knowledgeable at what they do, super helpful and welcoming vibe as well. the studio is soooo peaceful i loved coming in here after a busy day at work. i was also really enjoying my classmates! there's street parking around the studio, ive never parked in their lot since i think its paid! but the street by their parking lot entrance usually has a spot open around 4pm read more

Still Life Ceramics Studio - Art Classes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

recently had my first ever pottery class here (bowl in one) and it was a great intro to pottery. Instructor was very helpful and I really enjoyed the class. Studio is large and many people drop in to work on their projects. Prices are very good here if you want to try pottery for fun! Great group activity to do with friends. read more

Beautiful spacious studio with knowledgeable detailed instructors and great prices. I've been practicing pottery at another studio and went to still life with a few girlfriends. I'm so glad I came because I learned so much! I also bought reclaimed and dragonfruit clay. read more

My friends and I decided to take the beginner friendly "Bowl In One" class. The pricing was not that bad either for an hour class which totaled to $60 per person. I'm not exactly sure on all the negative reviews with this ceramic studio but we absolutely had blast! Our instructor Cullen was extremely patient and kind. He made it clear to let him know if we needed any type of help molding our bowls. Personally for me this ceramic class was difficult. I couldn't get the bowl to widen but I had so much fun! We received an email from Still Life Studio a few weeks later to pick up our bowls. They turned out lovely! I would recommend this class! read more

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I really enjoyed taking a class at this studio . The place is spacious and very welcoming . Classes are affordable. You can also sign up for monthly membership. Our instructor was super helpful and nice . Selection of classes and booking is easy. Bring a friend your boo or come by your self . read more

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My girlfriend and her mom went to this place in February. Apparently this place sends emails letting you know when your piece is ready, but didnt state that emails might get sent to spam/junk folders, so my girlfriend never saw a follow up email regarding pick up. She reached out in March asking about the status and didnt hear back until May. When i arrived to pick up the pieces for my girlfriend and her mom, 2 of the workers here spent about 20 minutes looking for the pieces only to come to a conclusion that all pieces made between 2/21 and 2/25 were destroyed in the kiln MONTHS ago and they failed to send an email out letting the customers know that their pieces were destroyed. Time and energy was wasted and they didnt even offer a full reimbursement, they offered a 100% free discount code to come back for another class. Not sure how much money was paid, but it doesnt seem worth the trouble if they cant communicate better. Why would anyone want to come back after finding out that the studio failed to let them know months ago that the pieces you worked on were destroyed?? I would give zero stars if i could. read more

I took a beginning wheel class five months ago and the hook got in deep. I took a 2nd class and then became a member. The studio has everything including really good music! The staff are wonderful, helpful and approachable. I've met good people. The studio has become a second home. Take a class and see what happens. Here's a photo of what I've been able to do after just a few short months. read more

Still Life Ceramics Studio - Just a few short months of learning the craft. - Art Classes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I've been a member at this studio for over three years now. I started by joining a beginning wheel class and instantly fell in love with the hobby. The instructors here are patient, kind, and knowledgeable. You get tons of free practice time and free clay when you first start. Both of which is an incredible value for the price. There's almost always a staff member available if you have simple questions regarding throwing. I learned a ton just by hanging out at the studio and chatting with the more experienced members. I've taken classes at other studios, but came back as a member here because of the quality of the firing. I've yet to get someone else's glaze dripped onto my pieces or have my pieces go missing. I've never had a piece become warped due to a misfiring. The membership prices are reasonable and the turnaround time is quick. I also appreciate the giant selection of cone 10 glazes. Lastly, I really like that this studio tries to conserve water. I've been to other studios that have clay traps and let students just rinse their trays over running water. I appreciate the thought and purpose behind each policy decision. read more

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A nice getaway for busy LA life, they have friendly and nice instructors and vibe, love spending time there and enjoy the weekend classes. read more

Still Life Ceramics Studio - Art Classes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I decided to take a class at Still Life Ceramics this past Sunday and it was so much fun. I went to their Arts District location which is near a lot of cool restaurants and cafes, street parking was available and not hard to find at all. As someone who has never worked with a pottery wheel and has never made anything with clay in their life, this was such an exciting experience. The class is called Bowl-in-one, and it was a one hour class that teaches you how to make, you guessed it, a bowl! The instructor was super kind and taught us the basics of making a bowl as well as tips and tricks. I learned so much during this class and it honestly sparked an interest in pottery! Not only do they offer really cool classes here, they also sell a lot of the ceramics made by the artists. I really enjoyed the class and cannot wait to take another one. Although I didn't take a picture of my final bowl, I had to take a photo of me with the pottery wheel. I'll be picking up my glazed bowl in a couple of weeks and I'm super excited for it! read more

Still Life Ceramics Studio - Art Classes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I came to still life ceramics twice. I went once for a work event, and a team building exercise to build a bowl as a private lesson, and I had such a fun time that I returned for a date night with my wife to have a personal lesson in Santa Monica. If you have ever been interested in trying your hand at making some ceramics/ using a pottery wheel, I highly suggest it. It is a very fun hour, where you get step-by-step instructions on exactly how to make a bowl. The instructors are all so nice, and patient. From the most creative people, to the less artistic, they take their time with everybody and make sure you feel good about knowing the steps. The most fun part is that no two items are ever identical, so you really leave with a one of one piece, and it makes you want to continue with pottery, and build a whole new set of dishware for your house. Lol. Once complete, you get to pick what finish goes on, color and all. Then they throw it in the kiln and bake it, and you can go pick it up in the next 2 to 3 weeks. I'm excited to go pick mine up because it's ready! I will post a finished photo once I have it, but I have an in progress photo I will attach. Highly recommend! read more

Still Life Ceramics Studio - Bowl - Art Classes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

As much as I enjoyed the experience and I would recommend it to anyone. Never received an email when my bowl was done! Super bummed! read more

I recently had an odd experience at Still Life and feel compelled to share my thoughts. During my session, I worked on a ceramic project with the expectation that it would be fully painted (despite the very bottom as I am aware it has to be held by some part), only to be dismayed when a substantial portion of it was left unpainted. I was even told that it would be trimmed and made beautiful. When I inquired about the unfinished section, I was informed that leaving it partially painted was standard practice, and that "that's how it's done for the B1 class." When I asked which class allowed the piece to be fully pained, they said, "This is how it's done for all ceramics as the bottom would stick to the kiln". This explanation seemed contradictory, especially as I observed other ceramics in the studio that were fully painted. To make matters worse, when expressing my dissatisfaction, I was met with attempts to gaslight me into believing that the unevenly painted section was intentionally beautiful. Meaning, this was done by choice because they genuinely thought it looked best this way. Despite my insistence on addressing the issue, such as paying extra for an upgrade or bringing the paint down a little lower, I was informed that fixing it was impossible and that I should accept it as the norm in ceramics. This lack of transparency and refusal to address a clear discrepancy in their service left me deeply dissatisfied. Customers should be fully informed about the creative process and have the right to expect a consistent level of craftsmanship across all projects. This experience 100% fell short of expectations. What makes this more unfortunate is that I went to this place with a friend of mine. Her piece is even more uneven and because of the darker color, highlights the carelessness of whoever gave this to me. The worst part? We both had such a great time during the class itself that we were even thinking about signing up for a package to full-on learn pottery. Needless to say, this was heartbreaking and I'm just genuinely sad that I had to wait such a long time just to be met with this as the final product. I say a long time because we were never notified our piece was ready and I had to follow up on my own. I hope that future customers are given accurate descriptions of the studio's practices and have a more positive experience than mine. Sincerely, BMZ read more

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Had to jump in on a new review for the location on Mateo since Still Life has changed locations. This one is actually twice (or more) the size of the last location but oh my god!!!! They have so much more going for them. They now have over four different kiln firings from cone 5-10. Also weekly they been doing Raku at a really cheap rate. If you know someone there they'll even give you a discount on a class or membership. Throwing and building with clay is sooo fun and therapeutic. If you're on the fence give it a shot. You won't regret it read more

Still Life Ceramics Studio - Ceramic Jewelry - Art Classes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Best studio in LA! I started ceramics two years ago and found this studio so inviting along with incredible facilities at a great price. The classes were perfect for beginners and I took several until I felt confident enough to become a member. Also the community is wonderful. Everyone of its members and staff are so friendly and supportive. read more

Still Life Ceramics Studio - Members firing shelf. Always fun pieces to check out :) - Art Classes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I wanted to update my review to say Gayle was wonderful! She made the refund process smooth and was so helpful.

I've been taking classes at Still Life for a year now and have found the most amazing, supportive community here. I cannot wait to start my membership. I've loved all my teachers, including Kiki, Sasha, Cullen, George, Eva, and Kristen and I would (and HAVE) recommend them to anyone interested in starting their own pottery journey. Teachers here are fun, challenging, and extremely approachable. No question is beyond them! I cannot put into words how much learning a new craft has enriched my life and it wouldn't have happened with a less encouraging staff and community of members. Also, the free practice hours during month long classes are so valuable and I am truly impressed with how sustainable the studio is! They're not all created equal ;) read more

SUCH A GREAT EXPERIENCE FOR NEWBIES! BOOKED A PRIVATE CLASS FOR TWO (We went to the Santa Monica location) PROS----- INSTRUCTOR: Our instructor for the private class was so informative and so much fun! Was very clear in direction and our pieces came out great! EASE: We didn't need to bring anything. We could be in wine or music if we wanted but there was some music already playing. Clay was prepared and all the tools were there. FIRING: We didn't have to worry about glazing or firing so it was nice just to go pick it up finished. CONS----- Nothing read more

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First time taking a ceramics/pottery class. I HAD A BLAST!!!! I did this class alone and i got to meet some fun people! Small class group of about 8-10 and it is done outdoors. Parking- Free in the structure for 90 min :) Instructor-I forgot our instructors name, but she was wonderful. She took the time to spend some time with everyone individually and go over all the steps. Very Accommodating. Picking up- They send you an email and call when your piece is ready. My piece came out wobbly but it was my first time!!! :D read more

Still Life Ceramics Studio - Art Classes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Had my first pottery experience here and enjoyed it! The instructor was very patient and helpful. read more

Still Life Ceramics Studio - Art Classes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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I feel bad for people who never did ceramics before and come here for their first experience. They may think this place is okay. Go literally anywhere else; this place is horrible. Unintelligent workers, bad service and bad equipment. The good reviews have to be fake. Seriously don't go here. #GoUCLABasketball read more

5/5 stars best pottery studio in LA! both cone 10 and cone 5 firings and so many glaze options!

I attended a one time class so that i can try it out before committing to a workshop and it was SO FUN! I am so glad I tried this out because I now definitely know I want to continue doing this. The studio is a bit hard to find because the plaza Row DTLA is so big but the directory helps. Come like 10 minutes before class so you have ample time to park (first 2 hours free) and find your way there. The location is superb since it is right by a bunch of other stores and places you can shop for clothes, ceramics, accessories, coffee and even food! The teacher was so kind and helpful during our class. Every time someone was late, she helped them catch up really quickly and efficiently guided all of us to make our first piece. She gave us clear and great tips that really shows improvement immediately. If you struggle a lot with a particular part, she will help you herself directly by centering for you. She is also very encouraging and supportive it really helps you believe in yourself. All the materials are provided and at the end, you pick a glaze color then pick up the finished product in about 3 weeks! The only thing is as I was leaving, I noticed one of the assistants coming in and "fixing" my piece by maybe adding some final touches which I appreciate but at the time would've liked to keep my piece 100% done by me. Overall, it was such a great experience and I highly recommend! read more

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I hosted a team building event for my office here if about 12 people for $70 for an hour of instruction for a bowl in one class. The service and instruction was great! Everyone enjoyed and learned a little bit of a new artistic skill. I'd say it a little bit on the pricier side given the timing and materials, but the novelty really is in the experience. Parking is only available via street so can be difficult during rush hour. Recommend carpooling. Nice facility overall read more

This class was so much fun, very warm, and informative ! I had the Friday 6:30pm beginners wheel class with my mother in law as an early Mother's Day gift , it was her first time and she enjoyed it. The instructor was very sweet, kind, and helpful! The instructor would show the technique first then us students would try to replicate her technique, she would go around the class to make sure we were all on the same page before moving onto the next step. At the end of the class my mother in law had a different outlook for ceramics, she never knew the skill and technique behind it but she now appreciates the work and skill it takes to make pottery. Also , it takes about a month for your piece to be ready. I highly recommend this place! Tips: 1) You may get messy so wear clothes and shoes you don't mind getting dirty. 2) Bring a small towel to wipe your hands if you want to take pictures with friends as you're creating your masterpieces 3) Get there early to find free street parking ! There's parking in the back but they charge you. read more

Amazing teachers, clean studio. I had a great time, took two pottery classes and was very happy.

I took my first ceramics class here and I really enjoyed it! I lucked up because the class I attended only had one other participant, and they didn't show up. So I got a 1-on-1 introduction to ceramics and it made it all the better. My instructor was thoughtful, experienced, and explained the process well. She really helped me understand what I was doing and I left the class empowered to take another. I even was able to make two bowls which they fired for me. They came out better than I imagined! read more

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This was my first time taking ceramics class and I had the best time. Not gonna lie, I felt little stressed during class cuz I was scared of messing up my product so I tried to be cautious. But the instructor was very helpful + informative and he even helped me get my shape back. I'm pretty satisfied with my first ceramics class experience and I recommend even if you're a beginner. This is a cute cute date night or friends hangout activity to do in LA. read more

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It was our very first time creating clay pottery. We wanted to try something different and that is outdoor to comply with COVID19 activity. This was it! We registered and paid online for the class within a month in advance to reserve our spots. COVID19 Friendly This place was COVID19 friendly having all the pottery stations outside in a patio near their studio. The instructors and all students were required to wear a face mask and we sat 6 feet apart. All the materials required were provided and at your station. You are not sharing or touching any equipment other than yours. Parking/Location There were convenient parking spaces available located right in the same building and a parking structure too.The studio and pottery class were located in Row, it's nice to walk around before or after class. Also it's close by great restaurants and coffee places in the same area. Restrooms Clean public restrooms are available to wash your hands before and after class. The bathrooms required an access code provided by the instructor. Experience We were the first to arrived to class. The instructor greeted us and was ready to let us sign in. Also she had us each picked the color of the pottery we would like it to be glazed. When all the students arrived, class begin with the instructor providing us detail instructions. She was very patient to help all eight people at the same time. First she demonstrated, let us work on it and came around to checked up on us. Class went by very fast because it was fun and in relaxing environment. After we finished our pottery, they send us all an email when our pottery is glazed and ready for pick up. It took about 1.5 week and up to 2 weeks before you receive the confirmation pick up email. Picking Up All the potteries were glazed and easy to pick up right outside the studio. They wrote our names underneath the bowls. We were excited to see our final results. Mine turned out okay and his turned out much better. I highly recommend it because it's an enjoyable experience and an activity you can do during COVID19. read more

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BEST EXPERIENCE!! The Still Life Santa Monica team hosted my corporate group of ~50 with ease, providing what became the highlight of our annual retreat. The staff were as friendly and approachable as they were helpful, meeting each of us where we were and enabling beautiful creations along the way. The space itself is stunning, and the communication - from start to finish - has been flawless. I couldn't recommend Still Life enough!! read more

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Took the "Bowl in One" class. It's absolutely beginner-friendly, the instructor explains everything very clearly and takes you step by step through the whole process. It was my first experience with any ceramics class, and I had so much fun. Would definitely recommend! read more

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had lots of fun when I came with my girl crew for girls night! we were newbies and the class taught us so much in such a short amount of time. love my lil bowl I made. read more

Still Life Ceramics Studio - Art Classes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

We came here to visit, not to attend a class. But if I wanted to in the future, I would try this place for a class experience. There were many items available to purchase and it was clean and spacious. Interested for the future. read more

So I had taken a one-hour class on Friday in October at the row location, and I enjoyed it so much that I thought to my self "why not take a couple of classes" I signed up for the beginner's course in November with Laura. The classes are held at their new location on Mateo st. Only a couple of minutes away. Laura is a great teacher, she explains everything at the beginning of class, and throughout class time, she answers any questions you may have. She takes time with each student and helps them practice any steps you may need more help with. She'll be at the studio other days of the week and is always happy to help. I took advantage of the extra practice time we get as students, and I feel like it helps me nail centering or pull up my walls. I retook the beginner's course in December, and I recommend retaking the beginner's class before taking the continuing class. I felt like I had a better understanding this second time. I made a planter, bowl, and cup with designs. Everyone at the studio was so helpful, and they were always so lovely and answered any questions I had, and believe me, I had a lot. I'm glad I found a studio that I am excited to go to every week. Bluebottle being next door is a bonus. I've included some photos of the things I've created. There's a variety of colors you can glaze your work with. Picking a color was probably one of the hardest parts. read more

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