Hands-on Pottery: Experiences create something unique in Pulaski County
JERRICA FLYNN CJ Contributing Writer
Over the past decade, Pulaski County has dipped its toes into more artistic ventures to brighten the community, including more murals on public buildings, the reopening of The Virginia Theater and the establishment of a new Arts and Entertainment District in downtown Somerset. Arts and crafts are not just hobbies or elementary school classes. Creative expression benefits stress regulation and serves as a vehicle for community building.
The Hip Kiln:
The Hip Kiln, one of Somerset’ s pottery painting venues, explores the delicate ties between art, mental health, and the benefits of getting your hands dirty. Kasey Compton, owner of The Hip Kiln, has a background in both art and counseling.
“ I own a counseling practice, and every day I see how much stress and pressure people are facing," said Compton. " Creativity is one of the most natural ways to regulate the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and reconnect with yourself and others.”
Compton felt a calling to bring art to the forefront of her career and open it to the public.
“ I began to see how much overlap there is between all forms of art, writing,
Pottery Selection at Splatter & Glaze Photo submitted by Splatter & Glaze painting, shaping clay, storytelling," she said. " They all invite us to slow down, to be present, and to express something real. That realization is really what led to The Hip Kiln.”
Located on Monticello Street, The Hip Kiln is a beginner-friendly setting where guests can walk in, choose from a wide variety of pre-made blank pottery pieces, and paint their new treasures however they see fit. Guests feel welcome to express themselves in a stress-free environment, with no prior experience required to enjoy themselves.
Whether it’ s a practical dish or keepsake, Compton sees value in every finished product.
“ But what becomes special isn’ t just the pottery, it’ s what the pottery represents," she said. " A mug becomes
someone’ s morning ritual. A handprint plate becomes something a family keeps for decades. Many of the pieces people create end up holding meaning far beyond the object itself.”
Outside of Monticello Street, you can catch The Hip Kiln on wheels at its mobile truck, floating around local outings and festivals. Mobile customers are introduced to The Hip Kiln and still take home a personalized piece on the road. Outside of social media, guests can visit www. thehipkiln. com to view full event schedules and operating times, and submit a contact form with any specific questions about bookings.
Fellowship is a key factor of a visit to The Hip Kiln. The shop often hosts public events, such as its popular“ Paint & Sip” series, private party rentals, special group events, and clay molding experiences for visitors. Thursday night themed classes are a popular trend at the studio, and The Kiln is now offering season passes for repeat customers. Compton stays rooted in her artist roots and developed a space just for creatives to expand their skills and recharge at her establishment.
“ One of our newest additions is The Workroom, which offers 24 / 7 art studio access for members who want creativity to be part of their everyday life rather than just an occasional outing," said Compton. " That space has
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