About Us
CLAY CREATIVITY AT PLAY
Usher yourself into an exciting new world where creativity and play take you on a journey of artistic discovery. Join us for a workshop or schedule your class today at Sarasota Clay Company.
Our Founder
Carla O'Brien
Born and raised on a dairy farm in Lowville, New York, Carla grew up in a big family, one of seven children. Lowville was a dairy community, a town that had more cows than people. “The clay studio is like a farm, almost. During the season, kilns have to run practically every day. We are always busy loading or unloading the kilns. There are supplies to be ordered, inventoried and shipped, glazes to be mixed, and clay to be recycled.” “Carla’s Clay sounds like a little hobby shop. But when people walk in, they go ‘Whoa!’ This is a big operation. We run classes for all ages 5 days a week. Clay is a commitment, you know. It’s a process.” In October of 2002, Carla and her husband, Tim, bought a warehouse in Northgate. In true barn-raising style, family and friends rallied to help renovate the building and turn it into the 5,000 square foot pottery studio that exists today. Says Carla: “I love the business part – my dad instilled great business ethic in us all. My siblings are all successful business people; we learned early that working hard pays off. That part of me, I don’t want to give up, but the creative still has got to come out. If it doesn’t, it’s simply not good for your soul.” While Carla draws her inspiration and support from many areas that include friends and family, her main line of support comes from her long-time friend and husband, Tim O’Brien. Carla and Tim moved to FL from northern New York. That is where Carla began thinking of her lifetime dream, that of owning her own pottery studio. Finally, in 2002 Carla and Tim founded Carla’s Clay – and today this wonderful creative space is called Sarasota Clay Company.”
Meet Your Instructors
Carla O'Brien
Carla is the Founder and Owner of Sarasota Clay Company (formally Carla's Clay). She has been teaching and working with clay for most of her life. A wonderful teacher for beginners and experienced potters, she strives to create a welcoming, familial atmosphere at the Studio.
D' Calvert
Ms. Calvert works in her home studio. Inspiration for her work comes from daily life, the pure joy of observation. Clay demands an attentive relationship. D’ is happiest during those quiet studio hours when time ceases to exist. Ms. Calvert is a seasonal Instructor at Sarasota Clay Company. She has exhibited at Orlando Museum of Art, Art Center Sarasota, Art Center Manatee, Florida CraftArt, R.C.A.D, and is in collections nationally. Her experience includes teaching at Ringling College of Art and Design Continuing Education, Wildacres Retreat, and attending workshops with Michael Sherrill, Matt Long, Ron Meyers, Elaine and Tom Coleman, Robert Boomer, Brad Schwieger, Gay Smith, and Nick Joerling. These experiences were invaluable and the class notes are a frequent source of reference.
Natasha Dikareva
Born & raised in Kyiv, Ukraine, Natasha Dikareva now lives in Sarasota, Florida. Her ceramic sculptures explore interconnections between biological systems, mythology, and contemporary technology. Drawing on her Eastern European background, her work bridges cultural and linguistic barriers, speaking to the common experience of life. She received her BFA in graphics and drawing from the Kiev State Academy of Art and Design and her MFA in ceramics and sculpture from the University of Minnesota. In 2012 she won the Grand Prize at the American Museum of Ceramic Art. Her work is featured in various publications, including 500 Prints on Clay and New Ceramics European magazine, and is held in public and private collections. She exhibits locally and internationally. Read more about Natasha on her website: dikarevart.com.
Justin Mastrangelo
Justin Mastrangelo is a lifelong artist with a background in graphic design and a love for ceramics. He began wood firing pottery in 2015 during an artist residency at Salem Art Works. During a two-year apprenticeship at Clinton Pottery, he developed his knowledge of production potter. Justin’s work shows a dedication to craftsmanship, skill, and time-honored tradition.
Josh Holbrook
Josh graduated from Florida State University in 2009 with degrees in Studio Art and Art History. With a focus in photography, he later moved into ceramics which led to teaching high school and adult education. Mr. Holbrook moved back to Florida with his wife and began teaching art at Sarasota Military High. His approach is grounded in a phrase his first ceramics professor taught, “love the process, not the product”. Josh’ work has been shown in galleries in Florida, Virginia and with Naples Art Crafters.
Rosenda, Student
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I began my clay adventure 6 years ago and have never stopped. It is an amazing experience to play in clay. There is nothing more satisfying than a kiln opening and seeing a beautiful piece created by your own hands. The instructors, equipment and atmosphere are the best!
Pat, Student
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
When I retired and did not know what to do with myself, I tried many things but did not feel at home until I found Sarasota Clay Company. I love the familial environment of the studio, the patient support from the experts as I learn an try to improve my skills. Everyone here is so supportive and provides realistic coaching and tutoring for those of us just starting out. I so enjoy my time in the studio and the people here, employees, clients, teachers etc. Everyone is so helpful for a beginner and a passionate potter!!!
Liz, Student
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I've been coming to Carla's studio for several years and wouldn't miss it for anything. Carla and her staff are all wonderful, fun, and supportive to all of their students. The instructors are very knowledgeable and will help you learn new things whether you are a new or experienced potter. If you want to try something new sign up for a class now!
Our Story
Established by Carla O'Brien in 2002, Sarasota Clay Company is a thriving community of artists and students who share a passion for pottery. We believe that everyone has an inner artist waiting to be unleashed, and we're here to help you find your voice. Our experienced instructors have extensive knowledge in the field, and bring their unique style and technique to every class. Contact us to learn more about our studio's educational programs.
Our Mission
At Sarasota Clay Company, we're committed to supporting local artists and fostering a community of creativity. Our studio welcomes artists from all backgrounds and levels of experience, and we're dedicated to helping each and every one of our members grow and develop their craft. Join us and become part of a vibrant and supportive artistic community.