about
Earth Art ceramic studio is located in our home and has been evolving for several decades. We previously had two other sites and are excited about our new home studio in the woods, near the Ashokan Reservoir. In this unique setting, we explore and experiment with clay as well as some Zentangling and on occasion a little yoga.
The studio is owned and operated by Brian Strenge and Teresa Pellegrini. Teresa is a retired certified art teacher and registered art therapist now studying graphic design at SUNY New Paltz. As an artist she works primarily in clay. Brian is a retired NYC firefighter, Lt., who has been studying yoga and art since 2003. He has been studying pottery at Byrdcliffe for 15+ years. Currently he is attending SUNY New Paltz. Both Brian and Teresa are certified Zentangle teachers and yoga instructors.
At the elementary school age, students learn basic hand building techniques: pinch, coil, and slab. We explore many glazing and under glazing techniques, as well as advanced decorative methods. Older students, grades 6 and up, learn to throw on the wheel. The focus is on form and texture. As we learn, grow, and begin to explore the many possibilities of clay, students begin to communicate and express themselves. We look at many cultures and artists through their pottery. In an inviting, nurturing setting, with very small class sizes, students begin to create and grow with clay.
