**MINOT, N.D.** – Minot State University’s Lifelong Learning Institute will offer multiple ceramics classes as part of its Spring 2025 class schedule, including open studio, beginner, and advanced methods.
“We are very pleased to have recently retired professor Linda Olson ’84 continue to teach the region by offering multiple ceramics classes for the entire community,” said Cole Krueger, MSU marketing director. “There are a variety of classes to fit everyone’s interest in ceramics. If you want to get involved in creating, this is an excellent opportunity.”
Olson retired from teaching at Minot State in 2024 after nearly 35 years at Minot State. A North Dakota native, she earned her bachelor’s degrees in art, English, and psychology at MSU, a Master of Arts from the University of Montana, and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of North Dakota. Olson has worked in several public collections, including the North Dakota Council on the Arts, the Skien, Norway Art Center, the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University PEARS Collection, and Minot State University, as well as in many private collections. She will be joined by MSU Artist in Residence and Ceramics Studio Manager Blaire Engel.
The events kick off with Open Studio running from Feb. 4 to April 15 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. Open Studio is considered at the advanced level and has two cost structures with four sessions/month at $85 and 12 sessions for $250 and includes clay and firing fees. Registered attendees will receive a small private locker and a designated studio shelf.
Beginner-level classes include Throwing Date Night Mug Class, Beginning Wheel Throwing, Continuing Throwing, and Hand Built Cup or Mug, which are $50 per person.
- Throwing Date Night is scheduled for Feb. 5 and 12 from 6-8 p.m. and is 18-plus. This hands-on pottery class is for two individuals exploring the art of wheel throwing together.
- Beginning Wheel Throwing is scheduled for Feb. 7, 14, and 21 from 6-8 p.m. and is for ages 16-plus. This introductory class will allow students to explore wheel throwing and various applications to create simple forms.
- Continuing Throwing is Feb. 28, March 7, and March 14 from 6-8 p.m. and is 16-plus. This is an independent studio class in which students continue to develop their skills, knowledge, and proficiency working in clay.
- Hand Built Cup or Mug is March 11 and 18 from 6-8 p.m. for ages 16-plus. In this class, enjoy the relaxing and pleasant process of hand-building in clay and treat yourself to a unique handmade object.
Family Tile Making is for ages 16-plus or 6-plus with parent or guardian on April 4 and 11 from 6-8 p.m. This class will feature designing your own ceramic tile in a family-friendly class.
