A place to learn / space to create

We're committed to nurturing a community that welcomes both experienced and beginner ceramicists to explore, inspire, and share knowledge. We hope to further education in the ceramic arts at all levels by providing after school programs, partnering with local organizations and inviting artists to share their craft through teaching.

The Space

Hand/Thrown is 1,000 sq/ft of open floor plan built specifically to nurture creative energy. With a communal style approach, our studio allows students to spread out, share ideas and work in an open environment without restriction. We have space for members, host classes, workshops and events, and hold space for our community to come learn and enjoy ceramic arts. We’re a multifunctional space for an ever growing and diverse city.

The People

We opened our doors in 2018 with the goal of bringing ceramic arts to a larger community and of providing space for artists to create, grow, and explore their craft through engagement and outreach. Richmond is chock full of ceramicists; a community of artists, educators, beginner and advanced makers. We wanted to create a space where all levels of ability and know-how would feel welcome. A multifunctional studio that could nurture artists in furthering their studio practice, educate youth on the possibilities of ceramic arts, and invite beginner and advanced students to continue to learn and grow their love for making pottery.

Location & Community

We’re located in the heart of Northside on Brookland Park Boulevard, nestled amongst a great network of local businesses and couldn’t be more excited to work with such a vibrant and diverse group of community leaders. Pay us a visit and be sure to stop in and meet our neighbors; SCRAP RVA, Diamond and Dutch Pet Spa,  BOHO Fit Studio, Ruby Scoops, Ninja Kombucha, Mrs. B’s, Alma’s, Nomad Deli , Michaela’s Bake Shop, Fuzzy Cactus and so many more.

Our Team

  • Alexis Courtney

    Title: Co-Owner 
    Pronouns: She / Her / Hers

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    Favorite Richmond Spot: Adarra

    Sign: Aquarius Sun, Aquarius Moon, Leo Rising

    Tell us more!: Alexis has been working with clay since 2006 when she took her very first wheel throwing class in college. Most of her learning has taken place in community studios just like Hand / Thrown, surrounded by makers of all levels. She believes clay has the power to build community, calm the mind, and ground the maker in the present moment while practicing important skills like patience and the beautiful art of letting go. She focuses on creating functional wares with an emphasis on minimalist shapes and modern designs under the name East Clay.

  • Emily Wicks

    Title: Co-Owner 
    Pronouns: She / Her / Hers

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    Favorite Richmond Spot: Dinamo

    Sign: Pisces Sun, Gemini Moon, Leo Rising

    Tell us more!: Emily has been working in ceramics for almost 15 years. Wicks’ passion for teaching has brought her from teaching at VCUarts, the Visual Arts Center of Richmond and other community organizations to presently teaching in her own studio. Emily works in both installation and functional ceramics; making pieces that focus on the materiality of clay and fiber, the body, and ephemerality. Most recently she created collections for Na Nin, Hazelwitch Farm, Rivercity Flower Exchange and Glare Goods.

  • Kristin Vamenta

    Title: Studio Coordinator
    Pronouns: She/Her & They/Them

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    Favorite Richmond Spot: Birdhouse Farmers Market

    Sign: Virgo

    Tell us more!: Kristin is new to clay, starting with handbuilding classes at Hand / Thrown in 2023. Kristin delights in cooking for loved ones, making well-organized spreadsheets, having conversations about power and consent, and building community through creative expression.

  • Hanami Morris

    Title: Studio Tech
    Pronouns: They/Them & He/Him

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    Favorite Richmond Spot: Pony Pasture

    Your Sign: Aries

    Tell us more!: Hanami primarily uses metal and clay to fabricate objects revolving around his identities and how they intersect. They enjoy both wheelthrowing and handbuilding, but they also have a particular interest in glaze chemistry.

  • Kestrel Sharp

    Title: Studio Tech 
    Pronouns: They/Them

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    Favorite Richmond Spot: East End Cemetery

    Sign: Sagittarius

    Tell us more!: As a ceramicist and art educator, Kestrel aspires to make pottery accessible and inclusive for everyone. Their favorite things to make are mugs and plates because of their functionality and connection with the user. When Kestrel is out of the studio they like to find new trails to hike with their dog Sydney :)

  • Rhythm Sutherland 

    Title: Studio Tech
    Pronouns: She/They

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    Favorite Richmond Spot: Japanese Garden at Maymont

    Your Sign: Gemini

    Tell us more!: This year marks 10 years Rhythm has worked with clay! Besides ceramics, she enjoys woodworking and making jewelry, and outside the studio you can catch Rhythm riding their bike around Richmond, at a local music venue for a show, or at home cooking!