Pottery Workshops & Masterclasses in Midlothian, VA

Our specialized pottery workshops and Master Classes at River City Clay offer the perfect opportunity to dive in, get your hands muddy, and elevate your craft. Conveniently located in Midlothian for makers across Richmond, Chesterfield, and the greater RVA area, our studio offers two distinct learning tracks:

  • Single-Session Guest Workshops: One-off hands-on sessions and artist demonstrations hosted by visiting ceramicists.

  • 4-Week Master Classes: Immersive deep dives led by Lead Instructor and Studio Manager, Lee Hazelgrove, designed for intermediate and experienced potters looking to master specialized techniques, materials, and surface decorating styles.

River City Clay Master Classes

4-Week Technical Focus Series

Designed for potters looking to refine their technique and elevate their craftsmanship, our 4-Week Master Classes offer structured, hands-on instruction led by Lee Hazelgrove.

Each series focuses deeply on a specialized skill set: from advanced surface decoration and glazing chemistry to complex multi-part builds and wheel-throwing precision.

What to Expect:

  • Dedicated Skill Focus: Dive deep into specific materials, decorative styles, or advanced ceramic forms.

  • Progressive Skill-Building: Weekly 3-hour guided sessions with targeted instruction, personal feedback, and tailored practice.

  • Small Class Sizes: Enjoy dedicated wheel/bench space and individual guidance throughout the 4 weeks.

Upcoming Workshops:

Check back for updates •
New Dates Coming Soon

Experience fresh perspectives and new approaches through our visiting artist workshops! Hosted by guest potters, visiting ceramicists, and studio artists, these single-session events feature hands-on workshops, technique demonstrations, and artist talks.

What to Expect:

  • One-Time Events: Standalone workshops ranging from short demonstrations to half-day hands-on projects.

  • Guest Perspectives: Learn specialized techniques and studio tricks straight from visiting artists.

  • Open to All Levels: Perfect for dipping your toes into a new style or getting inspired by guest makers.

Previous Workshops:

  • Cuerda Seca with Leslie Messersmith


    Cuerda Seca is a process of ceramic surface decoration that originated in the Middle East as a technique for decorating tiles. Wax is used to draw out the design and then the areas inside the lines are filled with glaze.

    About the Guest Instructor: Leslie Messersmith of Locust Hill Pottery, in Mechanicsville, Va. Her work has been featured in the Virginia Museum Shop, 43rd St. Gallery in Richmond, VA., Touch of Earth in Williamsburg, VA. and Sophia Street Gallery in Fredericksburg, VA. She has participated in numerous craft shows over the years in Florida, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C.