Creative Claythings
About Us
Creative Claythings had it's humble beginnings in January of 1979 under the name Chicago Fire and Earth in a small storefront on Lincoln Avenue.  In May of 1983, the business was sold and expanded from a dedicated teaching studio to include a gallery. At that time there were no outlets, (except for the rigorous art fair circuit) for the talented ceramicists of Chicago. Existing galleries chose to show the work of East and West coast artists while our own local talent had their works packed in boxes.

2003 found the studio and gallery looking for a new home and was glad to find the spacious and airy location at 2255 W. Grand Avenue. The heart of muddy creativity is now beating away in West Town... come join us for some good clean dirty fun!
Mary Haas: Studio Owner, The Boss, The Spit-fire

With over 36 years of teaching pottery under her over-all straps, Mary has plenty of experience. She will use this experience to kick your butt into gear on the pottery wheel. She will also probably tell you a hilarious, somewhat saucy story while you are elbow deep in some of her finely prepared low-fire earthenware clay.  As Mary would say, "It's more than a notion..." but it sure-as-heck is worth it.
Shawn Vincent: The Wise One
Thursday Night Advanced Instructor

Shawn is the wonderful wisdom nugget dropping teacher of the intermediate/ advanced classes. She has a degree in Biology and Art from Western Illinois University. She makes stunning bowls encrusted with Swarovski Crystals and her husband really loves Bruce Springsteen. Wanna make a ceramic Unicorn? How about a 1/16th replica of the Tower of London? Shawn's 24 years of teaching experience at Creative Claythings is bound to be help your dreams come to life.
Caitlin Duerinck: The Quirky One
Wednesday Beginner and Sunday Advanced Beginner/Intermediate Instructor
Caitlin first started working with clay at the tender age of 8, when her dad enrolled her in classes to stop her from digging up his plants to get to the clay below! She has a BFA in Ceramics from St. Mary's College, along with a MAM in Art, Entertainment and Media Management from Columbia College.  Caitlin likes making naughty swear mugs, perfectly round pieces and teeny-tiny, utterly impractical vases. Energetic, geeky and sassy, Caitlin's sure to have you cracking up without cracking your pieces!