Business adds art classes and summer art camps

The big grins on their faces say it all—children coming in and out of Ceramics Bayou seem to be having fun. The brightly decorated paint-your-own pottery studio has become a popular destination for do-it-yourself ceramics, children's birthday parties, baby showers, private parties and now—art classes.

Ceramics Bayou has been a part of the Westlake community for more than 17 years. Four years ago, owners Stephanie and Andy Andrasi, who have added new pottery techniques such as glass fusing and mosaics, purchased the business.

"It's neat to be part of the community for that long. Kids who used to have their birthday parties here as kids now come as adults to do art," Stephanie said.

Starting in April, Ceramics Bayou will offer daily core art classes while continuing to offer the walk-in, do-it-yourself art experience. The art classes are the result of a partnership with Cordovan Art Schools.

"One of the things that make our partnership so unique is that you can learn the principles of drawing and then come in anytime to make a gift for someone," Stephanie said. "It's a great partnership."

Cordovan has been teaching art classes for four years in Round Rock, Harker Heights near Fort Hood, Georgetown and Jerry's Art-o-Rama in North Austin.

"This is our first venture into Westlake," Cordovan co-owner John Howell said. "We've been wanting to get here for several years."

Howell says Cordovan is a traditional art school that teaches foundational art principles.

"We teach the principles behind good art so you know what you're doing," he said. "We have several award-winning artists on staff that are really top-notch."

The most popular class is called Pencil, Pastel, Watercolor and Beyond, in which students get the chance to try multiple mediums.

The art classes are primarily designed for children ages 6 to 12, Howell said, although Ceramics Bayou also has classes for children as young as 3 and for adults.

"Our No. 1 difference is we really strive to be family-friendly from the very youngest to the oldest," Stephanie said. "There are other places where younger children may not be as welcome."

Howell adds, "They have almost a hometown feel here when you walk in the door. You feel it right when you walk in. It's a very warm and personal environment, and I think that's what sets it apart from a lot of the other places."

Sonia Ward, a patron of Ceramics Bayou for the past four years, agrees.

"The staff is very helpful. It's the service you expect but don't always get," Ward said. "They make you feel like you're at home."

Howell and Stephanie are thinking about future expansion.

"I think there are geographic areas that may still have a need," Stephanie said. "Our No. 1 goal is to provide a quality product and experience while you're here."

Schedule

• June–August, Mon.–Fri.
• Morning classes 9 a.m.–noon
• Afternoon classes 1–4 p.m.
• A day-long option is also available.

Ceramics Bayou, 3620 Bee Caves Road, Ste. B, West Lake Hills, 328-1168, www.ceramicsbayou.com