ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Gabriel Kline is the owner and director of Odyssey ClayWorks, a clay studio and workshop based in Asheville. Kline’s work includes therapeutic classes for veterans, people in recovery and at-risk youths, as well as classes and workshops for all ages and skill levels, including a summer camp program for kids aged 6 to 14.
We interviewed Kline about the best parts of working at Odyssey. Read his answers below.
This interview has been lightly edited for clarity.
Tell us a little bit about the goal, mission and purpose of Odyssey ClayWorks.
Odyssey ClayWorks is a large, educational pottery studio that offers classes for all ages and all levels. We believe that access to the arts is an integral part of community health and part of our mission is to make clay accessible to all members of our community.
How long have you been in business here in the Asheville area?
Odyssey has been here since 1994 and was a driving factor in the revitalization and growth of the River Arts District.
What was your inspiration behind starting Odyssey?
Initially conceived as the educational arm of Highwater Clays, Odyssey was a way to introduce people to the craft, preserve the traditional Appalachian ways of making and to educate the public about modern and historical ceramics.
What sets your Odyssey apart from other clay studios?
At Odyssey, the vibe is the product. The clay is the vehicle to forge human connections. Our goal is to make everyone feel seen and heard, to provide community and to put a smile on your face.
What services, products or programs does Odyssey provide?
We offer classes and workshops for all ages and levels, including a popular summer camp program for kids ages 6 to 14. We also have a large gallery featuring over 50 in-house artists, rentable studio and kiln space and a glaze mixing service.
We work with the VA and have a longstanding Veterans program, which we offer free of charge to the participants. We also work with several drug and alcohol abuse recovery programs.
Do you provide these services year round?
Yes.
Are there any major special events that you offer throughout the year?
We love to show off the studio anytime. Major events at Odyssey include a summertime ice cream social and block party, a holiday open house and the annual Empty Bowls fundraiser in conjunction with MANNA FoodBank.
What is the most fun aspect of working on the Odyssey team?
There are such great people involved at Odyssey. That is what I like most about it. I hire folks who have a sparkle in their eye and it is a joy to co-create the space with people who care.
For more information about Odyssey ClayWorks, visit www.odysseyclayworks.com. For more about their summer camp program, check out our summer camp guide.