ICCGS offers advanced students the option of working independently (formerly known as Open Studio)
The Independent Studio Program (ISP) at ICCGS refers to artists in our community who use the community studio space and resources to work on their own. Artists must have a proficient level of skill in clay or glass that allows them to work independently along with a comprehensive understanding of the policies and procedures of ICCGS.
Artists will need to meet the following requirements to be eligible for the ISP. Due to the time intensive nature of clay and glass, artists must commit to a minimum of 2 months to ISP.
You must be a 2026 Friend of the Center
For both clay and glass, participants must have completed two classes for a total of 8-16 weeks of instruction at ICCGS or registered for the ISP within the past 12 months.
If you do not qualify, but have taken classes in the past 12 months, or have extensive experience working in a ceramic studio, you can schedule a Studio Orientation/Skill Assessment (a one time $60 fee) with our Associate Director of Education, Mary Wilhelm. Please contact her via email to schedule this assessment prior to enrolling in ISP at mary@iowaceramicscenter.org.
All individuals in the ISP must adhere to all Studio Policies and Procedures. A link to the current handbook can be found here.
If an artist is unable to successfully work within the guidelines of the ISP, they will be asked to return to a class session to further their understanding of the policies and procedures of the ICCGS Studio.
Work space is available on a first come first served basis. Classes receive priority over workspace during their class time.
Artists must sign in and out of the studio.
Artists must provide their own tools, some community tools are available and purchase clay from ICCGS.
Shelves must be cleared at the end of each session if a student is not enrolled for the next session. Anything left behind by students not registered for the next session is considered a donation to ICCGS. All tools, clay and glass will be placed in community use.
