PORTSMOUTH — A longtime dream for a community pottery shop with classes and studio time came to life this month with the cutting of a ribbon, and the gathering of more than 100 supporters for the grand opening of the Pottery Studio at Port City Makerspace.

In 2024, Danielle Kurani of Rye presented her plan for a pottery studio to build on the Port City Makerspace’s eight community workshops covering auto, bike, CNC, electronics, textiles, woodworking, machining, metal work, and more. Caught in the infectiousness of her enthusiasm and the fire of her dream, the Board of Directors approved the project, and thus launched a people-powered effort to bring a community pottery shop to life.

At the grand opening that featured clay tile making for all, Board Chair Gabriel Markley said, "This pottery studio represents something much bigger than just a room with wheels and kilns. It represents what's possible when a community comes together. This is what happens when we dream together, work together, and create together."

Danielle, the Pottery Studio manager, said, “Our studio was built for more than pottery. It was built to foster a sense of community and connection. A space where makers can express their creativity and grow meaningful relationships through art. This effort represents giving back, building community, and offering the opportunity to grow and create, both with our hands and in our lives.”

The studio, which now features a Kiln that can fire up to 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit and three electric wheels, is fully functioning with classes at open studio hours available weekly.

The buildout required immense volunteer hours and generous community support: “We had over 75 donors and 30 volunteers that came together to build this community pottery shop. They did everything from hanging lights to framing and sheathing new walls and funding the equipment,” said General Manager Alex Nunn. “This was a community effort through and through.”

Whether you’re an experienced potter looking for open studio time, brand new to ceramics and wishing to take classes, or you fall somewhere in between, Port City Makerspace will provide you the space, instruction and necessary materials to create and collaborate with other talented artists and makers.

Interested in classes and membership? Check out our website, www.portcitymakerspace.com for class schedules, events and membership information.

ABOUT PORT CITY MAKERSPACE (PCMS)

Located at 68 Morning St., Portsmouth, Port City Makerspace (PCMS) is a welcoming and inclusive community workshop that provides tools, knowledge, and a collaborative culture to encourage the artist and maker in everyone.

Since 2014, PCMS has served the greater seacoast community as a center of craft, education and cooperation. The Makerspace  builds relationships with local makers, artists, educators, and students and provides them with the resources they need to pursue their personal and organizational goals. Learn more at www.portcitymakerspace.com/.