Submitted Photo Minot State University’s Lifelong Learning Institute will offer multiple ceramics classes from February into April.

Minot State University’s Lifelong Learning Institute will offer multiple ceramics classes as part of its spring 2025 class schedule, including open studio, beginner and advanced methods.

“We are very pleased to have recently retired professor Linda Olson continue to teach the region by offering multiple ceramics classes for the entire community,” said Cole Krueger, MSU marketing director. “There are a variety of classes to fit everyone’s interest in ceramics.”

Olson retired from teaching at Minot State in 2024 after nearly 35 years. A North Dakota native, she earned her bachelor’s degrees in art, English and psychology at MSU, a Master of Arts from the University of Montana, and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of North Dakota. Olson has worked in several public collections, including the North Dakota Council on the Arts, the Skien, Norway, Art Center, the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University PEARS Collection and MSU, as well as in many private collections.

She will be joined by MSU Artist in Residence and Ceramics Studio Manager Blaire Engel.

The events kick off with Open Studio running from Feb. 4 to April 15 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. Open Studio is considered advanced and has two cost structures with four sessions to 12 sessions.

Beginner-level classes include Throwing Date Night Mug Class, Beginning Wheel Throwing, Continuing Throwing, and Hand Built Cup or Mug.

Throwing Date Night is scheduled for Wednesdays, Feb. 5 and 12, from 6-8 p.m. and is for participants aged 18 and older. This hands-on pottery class is for two individuals exploring the art of wheel throwing together.

Beginning Wheel Throwing is scheduled for Fridays, Feb. 7, 14 and 21, from 6-8 p.m. and is for ages 16 and older. This introductory class will allow students to explore wheel throwing and various applications to create simple forms.

Continuing Throwing is Fridays, Feb. 28, March 7 and March 14, from 6-8 p.m. for those 16 and older. This is an independent studio class in which students continue to develop their skills, knowledge and proficiency working in clay.

Hand Built Cup or Mug is Tuesdays, March 11 and 18, from 6-8 p.m. for ages 16 and older. In this class, students will enjoy the relaxing and pleasant process of hand-building in clay and treat themselves to a unique handmade object.

Family Tile Making for ages 16 and older, or 6 and older with parent or guardian, will be held Fridays, April 4 and 11, from 6-8 p.m. This class will feature designing your own ceramic tile in a family-friendly class.

All classes are scheduled in the Minot State’s Ceramics Studio in the lower level of historic Pioneer Hall.

For information on fees or to register, contact MSU’s Center for Extended Learning.