OUR VISION
Clay Space is an educational and members based creative studio where ceramic artists of all skill levels can learn, grow, and connect. We endeavor to be an integral part of the greater artistic community within Eugene. As artists, educators, and advocates for the power of art and unity, we are committed to our aim of a diverse community and aspiring to cultivate an inclusive space, while striving to honor our impact on the world around us.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to cultivate a supportive communal working studio with a variety of offerings that provides for and serves our community for all levels of ceramic artists, learners, and ceramic enthusiasts. We aim to maintain affordable access to quality ceramic instruction, member access to aspiring artists and provide our local ceramicists with a comfortable and inspiring place to work and be involved in our community. We strive to foster alliances within the greater community through outreach and networking with other local organizations by fulfilling interest in the health and wellbeing of others within our society.
2008 TO 2021
2008 - 2021
Clay Space was founded by Jim Laub & Sandy Harder as a ceramics studio offering classes, workshops, and studio space for local ceramics artists
2021-2024
Denise & Kevin Railsback continued the operations of Clay Space as a for profit business while implementing upgrades to help the studio better serve the community
2025
Clay Space embarked on an exciting transformation to develop into a 501c3 nonprofit to ensure the longevity of the studio and expand the ability to offer resources, education, and community. This process was ongoing throughout the first half of 2025 and presented new volunteer and community engagement opportunities at Clay Space.
LOOKING FORWARD
Clay Space has transformed into a nonprofit organization actively working to secure our future and create new opportunities through grants, donations, and deeper community involvement. Becoming a non profit cements our core values of serving our community and providing education and artistic exploration to our members.
COMMUNITY
Since Clay Space was acquired in 2021, the overarching goal has been to create a place where one can develop friendships and share skills, techniques and tips, to feel welcome and safe. We believe that we have created this community and have met this initial goal. We continue to create the community that we have today.
BECOMING A
NON PROFIT
Our next goal is to make this community sustainable; a community that will survive indefinitely and not be dependent upon any one individual. We believe that we are currently in the phase of maintaining and growing the community of Clay Space. We have transitioned from a for-profit business to a public benefit non-profit organization.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR MEMBERS?
The official transition to 501(c)(3) status has officially occurred and we will now be able to accept tax-deductible donations and apply for grants, which we believe will significantly increase Clay Space offerings to our existing community and the broader community of Eugene.
COMMUNICATION
EDUCATION
OVERSIGHT
EVENTS
FACILITY
FUTURE FACILITY
RESEARCH
FINANCE
GRANTS
LEGAL
MARKETING
WORKSHOPS
& OUTREACH
WEBSITE
NEXT STEPS
Clay Space has obtained a 501(c)(3) status and is able to seek out grants. Donations made will be tax-deductible and donors will receive a receipt for their records. Interested businesses and organizations may request a donation form. We want to be fully transparent in the steps required to achieve our ultimate goal.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
There are many ways to help! The first and most important step, once becoming a member, is to sign up for and complete the member commitment hours located on the Member / Student Reservations webpage. This community studio takes many hands to operate smoothly and maintain clean working spaces.
If one would like to serve in additional ways, several committees are listed that address more opportunities. To join a committee, or contribute additional skills, services or knowledge, please contact one of our board members at: board@clayspaceeugene.org.