Seal It with Clay: Symbolic Envelopes & Meaningful Wall Art

Unlock your imagination in this 5-day journey into symbolic storytelling through clay! Campers will design and create their own ceramic envelopes—each one a unique container for personal messages, memories, or dreams. From heartfelt letters to secret wishes, these sculpted envelopes are more than decor—they're pieces of “meaning”. Campers will also explore a variety of wall-hanging forms like textured tiles or coasters, sculptural symbols, and small shelves. Along the way, artists will dive into handbuilding techniques like slab construction, carving, stamping, and glazing, all while developing their own visual language. By the end of the week, each artist will go home with a collection of meaningful wall pieces that speak from the heart—and look amazing on the wall. Sack lunch option available for purchase at check-out.

Teacher Bio: Rachel Ptaszek is a dedicated educator and ceramic artist with more than 13 years of teaching experience in Denver Public Schools and Cherry Creek School District. She holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Engaged Learning Through the Arts. She has led a thriving clay club at a CCSD Middle School and brings 11 years of ceramic practice, including training from the Art Students League of Denver. Her work blends wheel throwing, hand-building, and surface design inspired by nature, mythology and astronomy. Outside of work, Rachel loves spending time with her husband and baby boy. She continues to grow her own pottery practice and enjoys hiking, cooking, baking, and exploring art walks and museums. Rachel is passionate about sharing the joy of clay with middle school artists and helping young makers build creativity, confidence, and curiosity through hands-on exploration.

Room: Clay Studio

Subject: Ceramic Arts

Time: 8:45 a.m.-3:45 p.m.

Lunch can be purchased through Kent Denver for all classes below 50 in number. Students may bring their own lunch.

Materials Fee: $55