BAYarts New Ceramic Arts and Education Center Opening
After much anticipation and planning, The Karen Ryel Ceramic Arts & Education Center on BAYarts’ campus will open this winter. The studio is named in memory of a ceramic artist and member of BAYarts’ close-knit ceramics community and made possible by a gift from her family. The new structure replaces the existing studio now located in the basement of the 122 year-old John Huntington House, which also houses BAYarts offices, youth classrooms, education gallery and consignment shop (The Fuller House, also on the campus, houses a second gallery, adult classroom and café).
Although there have been electrical and equipment upgrades to the existing classroom in recent years, there is much room for both safety and aesthetic improvement. The new studio will be a 2000 square foot addition to the Huntington House, with high ceilings, lots of light, storage and display space. Additional wheels and kilns will be added. Two ADA bathrooms and entrance ramp will address the lack of access in the historic building.
Moira Beale, head of the BAYarts Ceramic Department, says the new building is a dream come true, not only for the long-standing pottery community, but for new audiences of all ages, opening the door for new programming including visiting artists, specialty workshops and events. Whereas lack of space in the existing studio meant many students had to cart their work home upon completion, now work can be displayed and stored. Upon completion, there will be an outdoor patio and kiln so classes can be held outdoors surrounded by a sculpture garden on BAYarts’ Cleveland Metroparks campus.
The ceramic center was designed by Vocon, Inc. Additional funding was provided by Ohio Facilities Construction Commission and Cleveland Metroparks (BAYarts landlord). A naming rights campaign will begin next year.
For information on BAYarts ceramic programming: www.bayarts.net
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BAYarts
28795 Lake Road
Bay Village, Ohio 44140
bayarts.net
440.871.6543