Get Creative with Art + Writing Classes
Unleash your creativity with expert guidance and a splash of fun! Join our vibrant community center for art classes and writing classes, where skilled instructors lead inspiring sessions in pottery, drawing, painting, crafts, and the art of storytelling. Dive into a world of diverse mediums—acrylics, oils, watercolors, charcoal, pen, paper, and beyond—while discovering the joy of creating alongside fellow enthusiasts.
Be the first to know when classes open for registration, early bird registration deals, and more!
Studio Art Classes
Welcome to the heart of creativity at our Studio Art Class programs:
About Our Classes
Nestled below ground level, our expansive art studios buzz with vibrant energy, providing a welcoming haven for artists of all levels. Whether you're a beginner eager to embark on a creative journey or an artist with intermediate to advanced skills seeking mastery, our program has something to offer you. Immerse yourself in the fluid beauty of watercolors, capture the essence of form and structure through figure drawing, explore the vibrant possibilities of acrylics, piece together intricate mosaics, and unleash your creativity in the realm of crafts.
Personalized Attention
At the JCC, we believe in fostering creativity and skill development through personalized attention, and every class is a hands-on experience in our supportive environment. We intentionally maintain small class sizes to provide one-on-one instruction tailored to accommodate your individual skill level. Our dedicated team of instructors brings a wealth of experience and a passion for guiding students toward their artistic goals.
Picture yourself in our spacious studios with high ceilings, creating masterpieces on brand-new easels in a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for the arts. Join us and let your creativity flourish in an environment that encourages exploration and growth.
How do I register?
Registration for all studio arts and writing classes is done online. If you have questions, contact the box office via email at boxoffice@mmjccm.org or by phone at 646.505.5708, Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm.
When will the next season's schedule be available?
Season schedules are released on a rolling basis. Sign up for the Arts + Ideas email list to be notified first when classes are posted.
What if classes are sold out?
Please email the box office to register for the waitlist at boxoffice@mmjccm.org or by phone at 646.505.5708, Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm.
What if I cannot make it to a class?
No cash refunds or JCC credit will be issued for individual classes missed due to personal scheduling conflicts.
Do you offer virtual art classes?
Not at this time.
Do you offer scholarships?
Our scholarship program is suspended at this time.
Can I schedule a tour of the facility?
Yes. Please email studios@mmjccm.org to set up a tour time with our staff.
Are there any discounts for early registration?
Yes, we occasionally offer discounts for early registration to select classes. Sign up for the Arts + Ideas email list to be the first to know about these discounts.
Do you prorate registration fees for classes?
Yes, we occasionally offer prorated registration fees up to two weeks after a class start date. Sign up for the Arts + Ideas email list to be the first to know about these discounts.
Can I apply any previous credits toward my new order?
Yes. Please contact the box office via email at boxoffice@mmjccm.org or by phone at 646.505.5708, Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm, regarding your credits.
I paid through CourseHorse, how can I register going forward?
If you have credits through CourseHorse, you must contact CourseHorse to learn how best to use them.
Are there lockers available to rent on-site?
Yes. Locker rentals are $20 per semester for JCC members and $30 per semester for the public. Between semesters, locker rentals are $10 a month. Lockers are free for Open Studio Pass students. Your instructor can help you rent a locker when you arrive at your first class. Please note that there are a limited number of lockers available for rent.
Ceramics
Welcome to our pottery haven on the Upper West Side!
Discover the joy of creating beautiful ceramics in our state-of-the-art studio. Nestled in the heart of the Upper West Side, our spacious studio boasts high ceilings and is equipped with everything you need for a fulfilling creative experience.
Why Choose Us?
At our ceramics studio, we take pride in providing some of the best facilities for pottery wheel and ceramics classes in the area. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our brand-new equipment, featuring four large work tables, a slab roller, and nine pottery wheels to cater to all skill levels.
Materials that Set Us Apart
Dive into your artistic journey with various glazes and explore the possibilities of both clay and porcelain. Our selection of clay bodies goes beyond the ordinary, ensuring that even advanced students can choose from a range of exciting options. Small class sizes ensure a dynamic and evolving experience each term.
Enriching Class Experience
We believe in fostering a community where ideas, creativity, and laughter are shared freely. Whether you're a beginner or at a more advanced level, our in-person classes provide an inviting work environment. Collaborate and learn among peers, enhancing the richness of your class experience.
Top-notch Facilities
Our studio is equipped with two electric kilns fired to cone 6 oxidation using a white stoneware clay body. These high-level facilities ensure your creations are brought to life with precision and care.
Ready to embark on your pottery journey? Sign up for one of our in-person classes today where the art of ceramics comes to life, and creativity knows no bounds.
Will there be ceramics open studio time?
Open Studio Pass holders are advanced students (not necessarily currently enrolled in a class and approved by the studio manager) that can work independently. They will have exclusive access to the studio during certain times.
The cost is $250 per month with a three-month commitment. Registration includes a private locker; you must provide your own lock. Open Studio Pass does not include firing fees.
Open Studio Pass Hours:
Mondays, 10 am–5 pm
Wednesdays, 10 am–6 pm
Saturdays, 10 am–4 pm
The JCC Ceramics Studio offers open studio time for students when classes are not scheduled in the space. Currently enrolled students receive three hours of studio credit for the season they are enrolled, and additional open studio time credits can be purchased from their instructor or the studio monitor (payment accepted by credit card). Credit expires at the end of each season.
Studio Time for Students Hours:
Thursdays, 1–3 pm and 6–9 pm
Sundays, 5:30–8:30 pm
How do firing fees work?
Firing fees are priced by the size of the work, measured by cubic inch. Firing costs 6¢ per cubic inch per piece and includes bisque and glaze firings. Students can purchase firing fees from their instructor or studio monitor (payment accepted by credit card).
When will I get the supply list? What am I responsible for paying for?
Supply lists will be sent out after registration. Each student is responsible for their own supplies. You can rent a locker to store your supplies from week to week. The JCC is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.
For pottery wheel students, we recommend purchasing a ceramics beginner’s kit, or equivalent tools (sponge, loop tool, wire clay cutters, pro needle, boxwood tool, potter's rib, ribbon tool, and metal scraper). These are available at most art stores and cost approximately $15 total.
Are children allowed in the ceramics studio?
Children are not permitted in the studio unless they are attending a children’s ceramics class scheduled at that time.
How do I register?
Registration for all studio arts and writing classes is done online. If you have questions, contact the box office via email at boxoffice@mmjccm.org or by phone at 646.505.5708, Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm.
When will the next season's schedule be available?
Season schedules are released on a rolling basis. Sign up for the Arts + Ideas email list to be notified first when classes are posted.
What if classes are sold out?
Please email the box office to register for the waitlist at boxoffice@mmjccm.org or by phone at 646.505.5708, Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm.
What if I cannot make it to a class?
No cash refunds or JCC credit will be issued for individual classes missed due to personal scheduling conflicts.
Do you offer scholarships?
Our scholarship program is suspended at this time.
Can I schedule a tour of the facility?
Yes. Please email studios@mmjccm.org to set up a tour time with our staff.
Are there any discounts for early registration?
Yes, we occasionally offer discounts for early registration to select classes. Sign up for the Arts + Ideas email list to be the first to know about these discounts.
Do you prorate registration fees for classes?
Yes, we occasionally offer prorated registration fees up to two weeks after a class start date. Sign up for the Arts + Ideas email list to be the first to know about these discounts.
Can I apply any previous credits toward my new order?
Yes. Please contact the box office via email at boxoffice@mmjccm.org or by phone at 646.505.5708, Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm, regarding your credits.
I paid through CourseHorse, how can I register going forward?
If you have credits through CourseHorse, you must contact CourseHorse to learn how best to use them.
Are there lockers available to rent on-site?
Yes. Locker rentals are $20 per semester for JCC members and $30 per semester for the public. Between semesters, locker rentals are $10 a month. Lockers are free for Open Studio Pass students. Your instructor can help you rent a locker when you arrive at your first class. Please note that there are a limited number of lockers available for rent.
Writing
Discover the power of your pen! Are you ready to transform your thoughts into captivating stories and poems? Our writing classes provide a nurturing space for aspiring wordsmiths to explore their creativity, refine their skills, and embark on a journey of self-expression.
High-Level Partners with Proven Success
The JCC has partnered with The New School and the New York Writers Workshop to bring you seasoned writing instructors who are passionate about helping you discover your unique voice and style. From creative writing to playwriting to poetry, our courses cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels where you can share ideas, receive constructive feedback, and connect with fellow writers.
All Levels Welcome
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced writer, our classes are designed to meet you where you are, offering challenges and insights for growth. Enroll in our writing classes today and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery through the art of storytelling.
Your journey as a wordsmith begins here!
How do I register?
Registration for all studio arts and writing classes is done online. If you have questions, contact the box office via email at boxoffice@mmjccm.org or by phone at 646.505.5708, Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm.
When will the next season's schedule be available?
Season schedules are released on a rolling basis. Sign up for the Arts + Ideas email list to be notified first when classes are posted.
What if classes are sold out?
Please email the box office to register for the waitlist at boxoffice@mmjccm.org or by phone at 646.505.5708, Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm.
What if I cannot make it to a class?
No cash refunds or JCC credit will be issued for individual classes missed due to personal scheduling conflicts.
Do you offer virtual art classes?
Not at this time.
Do you offer scholarships?
Our scholarship program is suspended at this time.
Are there any discounts for early registration?
Yes, we occasionally offer discounts for early registration to select classes. Sign up for the Arts + Ideas email list to be the first to know about these discounts.
Do you prorate registration fees for classes?
Yes, we occasionally offer prorated registration fees up to two weeks after a class start date. Sign up for the Arts + Ideas email list to be the first to know about these discounts.
Can I apply any previous credits toward my new order?
Yes. Please contact the box office via email at boxoffice@mmjccm.org or by phone at 646.505.5708, Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm, regarding your credits.