Get Enriched at Tyler Park Center for the Arts

This spring, it may be time to get your spin on.

Pottery classes are offered year round at Earth Center Pottery (ECP), located at the Tyler Park Center for the Arts. Adults and children of all ages and all levels of experience create simple to complex pieces at the studio, located at the state park.

Jennifer Miller is executive director and head instructor at ECP.  Sign up is available throughout the year. Miller is a Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen Juried Member with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in functional and decorative clayware.

During the Wednesday morning pottery class, novices and experienced pottery enthusiasts worked on bowls, flower planters, dishes and other pieces.

"I have been coming to Earth Center Pottery for nearly four years," Susan Herzog said. "I enjoy the comfortable atmosphere here—it's very relaxing. You can work at your own pace. If you need help, Jennifer and the other students are more than willing to help."

Jodi Reed has been coming to ECP for the past two years.

"I find pottery very addicting," Reed said. "You can make a simple bowl, or something very complex—the choice is yours." Reed has been working on a flower planter for the last couple of weeks.

Reed's 10-year old daughter, Shelby, attends the children's sessions. Shelby enjoys coming to the studio as much or more than her mother does. Reed said Shelby can't wait until pottery class each week.

If you'd like to try a class, but are a little bit apprehensive, you may want to try the monthly "Friends Night Out" pottery sessions.

"You don't have to know anything about pottery," Miller said. "Sign up and bring your friends and expect a fun evening out. There's food, beverages, and you'll create a pottery piece." The event is held on a Friday night from 7:30 to 10:00 p.m. The cost is $30.

Children can attend the monthly "Children's One Day," held from 1 to 3:00 p.m. either on a Saturday or Sunday. Children under seven must be accompanied by an adult. The cost is $20.

There is a Friends Night Out on Friday, April 29th. The project is a sangria pitcher. Check the Web site, www.earthcenterpottery.com, for more information on events.

Recently, the center has undergone some changes. Formerly known as the Earth Center for the Arts, it's now called Tyler Park Center for the Arts. Other creative endeavors there include the Sewing Studio at Tyler State Park under the direction of Karen Evanetz.

There will be numerous events this year, including spring workshops and an annual art auction on June 3. There will be several items up for bid, Miller said, including a ferryboat ride, fine art, and vacation stays. There will be live music by local musician John Danaher, food, and beverages.Tickets are $25.

Sunday coffeehouse events will resume on the third Sunday in May.

"Everyone is welcomed—families, singles, couples. From 6 to 9 p.m. on Sunday nights, we feature local musicians, poetry readings, dancers and other creative artists." The cost is $5 a person. The event is held in the former back stable area of the center.

For more information about the Tyler Park Center for the Arts, go to http://www.ec4ta.org.