Bethann Kelleher started her ceramics journey in high school when she fell in love with the practice, inspiring her to earn degrees in both ceramics and education after graduating.

After teaching continuing education classes, elementary school art, and lessons at nonprofits and other studios, she decided to open her own space after moving to Texas in 2021.

Kelleher launched BBK Ceramics in May 2024, taking the leap to teach for herself instead of others. She is here to create an intentional community and share her knowledge with others, Kelleher said.

“I am driven by those who really want to be here and really enjoy it,” Kelleher said. “We're not shooting for the most creative, high-end art. If you make that great, we love that, but we're not chasing that dream. We're just kind of existing and loving the clay [as] more of a therapy.”

The details


BBK Ceramics houses six pottery wheels and a space for hand building to accommodate classes and workshops. Kelleher typically hosts more workshops during the holiday season, especially Halloween-themed events where attendees can carve clay pumpkins or decorate haunted houses.

“I design [the workshops] so that people can create a decoration for themselves with their personal style that also fits the holiday,” Kelleher said. “[They] can unplug and make this fun little item.”

She also hosts open studio time for people to come in and experiment with the clay on their own, an aspect of BBK Ceramics that Kelleher hopes to expand in the future.

“I want it to be welcoming, safe [and] calm,” Kelleher said. “I'm here to help you every step of your journey.”


Dig deeper

In addition to being a workspace for others, the studio is also where Kelleher creates her own pottery. She typically travels all over Williamson and Travis counties from September to December, vending at various markets.

“I work better under the high pressure [and] long hours, but I'm slowly learning that running a studio and doing market season is a fine balancing act,” Kelleher said.

Her bestselling items at markets are typically coffee mugs, which she likes to decorate with skulls.


Respecting the craft

Along with her love of teaching and facilitating, Kelleher finds true joy in the process of creating.

“I get to wake up every day and work my dream job making my stuff [and] helping you make your stuff,” Kelleher said. “Not everybody gets to do what they want to do for a living. [I] worked pretty darn hard to get here and [I] wouldn't trade it.”