Celebrate all things clay this June at Art League of Ocean City during Clay-a-palooza 2026, a month-long celebration of pottery, ceramics, sculpture, and hands-on creativity featuring the talented artists of the Clay Guild of the Eastern Shore.

Throughout the month, visitors can enjoy exhibitions, live demonstrations, workshops, artist talks, open houses, and interactive experiences designed for clay enthusiasts of every skill level.

The celebration begins with a special Pottery Studio Open House on Wednesday, May 13 from 12-1 PM.

Guests are invited behind the scenes to explore the pottery studio, meet Pottery Manager Robbie Johnson, and learn more about upcoming classes and Clay-a-palooza events.

This free event offers a unique opportunity to ask questions, tour the studio, and connect with the local clay community.

Clay-a-palooza officially kicks off during First Friday on Friday, June 5 from 5-8 PM with extended gallery hours and activities throughout the Art League building.

In the pottery studio, guests can enjoy live pottery demonstrations and artist talks from 5-6 PM, followed by a hands-on "Try the Wheel" experience from 6:30-7:30 PM.

Downstairs, visitors can browse a Pottery Market featuring local clay artists while trying their luck at Pottery Pong for a chance to win handmade pottery.

Exhibitions and installations throughout the building will showcase the work of the Clay Guild of the Eastern Shore, including the "Elemental" exhibition in Studio E, featured works in the Felber Artisan Showcase, and outdoor sculptures displayed in the Sandy & Palmer Gillis Courtyard.

Throughout June, Clay-a-palooza will also feature exciting workshops led by professional ceramic artists. On Sunday, June 7 from 12-5 PM, Robbie Johnson will lead a Raku Pottery Workshop where participants can experience the dramatic and unpredictable raku firing process.

The workshop fee is $45 for members and $54 for non-members. Another Pottery Studio Open House will take place on Wednesday, June 10 with artist Sarah Halcott, offering guests another chance to explore the studio and pottery programs.

Featured ceramic artist Cori Beardsley will lead a hands-on pottery workshop on Saturday, June 20 from 12-4 PM.

Participants will receive guided instruction and creative insight during this immersive ceramics experience. The workshop fee is $205 for members and $245 for non-members.

From June 5-27, visitors can explore Clay Guild exhibitions throughout the Art League, discover featured pottery in the Artisan Showcase, stroll through the outdoor sculpture garden, and participate in ongoing pottery classes designed for beginners through advanced artists.

Clay-a-palooza proudly features the work of talented Clay Guild artists including Corinne Beardsley, Marie Cavallaro, Lisa DeRicco, Sarah Halcott, Robert Johnson, Vicki Noonan, Ernest Satchell, Isabel Valero, Patricia Rose, Alex Halcott, and Zulma Jimenez.

Whether you're an experienced potter, an art lover, or simply curious to try something new, Clay-a-palooza 2026 offers a vibrant month of creativity, community, and clay-filled inspiration at the Art League of Ocean City.