The Clay Hole vs. Petersen Art Center: Which Pottery Studio Is Best for You?
If you’re exploring Petersen Art Center and The Clay Hole, you’re considering two well-known creative spaces in Utah. This comparison breaks down how each studio operates, what they offer, and what type of artist they’re best suited for.
Class Format: Weekly Learning vs. Short Courses
The Clay Hole offers weekly classes only. Our format is designed for adults who want to keep coming back, week after week, and build real friendships and real pottery skills. We don't host drop-in sessions or single-evening events, because our mission is deeper connection and long-term growth.
Petersen Art Center, according to their website, offers short courses and structured series—some as brief as 4 or 6 weeks. While those classes provide exposure and variety, they may not offer the same ongoing connection and freedom The Clay Hole builds its model around.
Studio Space, Materials & Equipment
At The Clay Hole, members enjoy access to one of the most well-equipped and spacious studios in Utah:
- 10,000 sq. ft. of creative space
- 500+ commercial glazes and 100+ underglazes
- Thousands of studio tools for members to use freely
- 8 clay bodies available for purchase (firings not included in membership)
- Clay extruders, giant slab rollers, and dozens of unique molds
Petersen Art Center has a smaller space, and while they do offer quality instruction and access to materials, their supply list and equipment options are more limited than what The Clay Hole includes with every membership.
Extra Perks at The Clay Hole
- Most memberships come with bonus pottery days—extra hours to work on your own
- Comfortable lounge areas with couches and game tables
- Access to coffee, cocoa, cold drinks, and snacks every class
Community, Events, and Vibe
- The Clay Hole regularly hosts raku pottery events, non-pottery art workshops, and Friday Singles Nights
- Inclusive culture for LGBTQ+ adults, ex-Mormons, neurodivergent individuals, and those seeking deeper community
- Game nights, studio parties, and creative gatherings help members connect beyond the wheel
Meet Dan Pearce, Founder of The Clay Hole
The Clay Hole was founded by Dan Pearce, a nationally known artist, potter, and social creator with nearly 3 million followers across platforms. Dan is present at every class, gets to know members by name, and keeps the studio fun, inclusive, and inspiring for everyone.
Location & Accessibility
The Clay Hole is located at 12896 S Pony Express Rd, Suite 100, Draper, UT. We’re just off I-15 and easy to reach from Salt Lake, Utah Valley, and the surrounding communities.
FAQs
Does Petersen Art Center offer weekly classes like The Clay Hole?
Petersen’s programs vary in length but are generally short-term. The Clay Hole offers ongoing weekly sessions that never expire as long as you’re a member.
Can beginners join at The Clay Hole?
Yes! Most members come in with zero experience. We have four instructors per class and a very welcoming, low-pressure environment.
Is The Clay Hole LGBTQ+ and ex-Mormon friendly?
Absolutely. We welcome adults from all backgrounds who respect the creative space and our community guidelines.
Disclaimer: We’ve done our best to present an honest, respectful comparison based on publicly available information at the time of writing. We have not attended or participated in classes at Petersen Art Center, and this page reflects publicly available class info, reviews, and studio listings. If anything is inaccurate, we’re happy to correct it.
Every pottery studio adds value to the arts. Petersen Art Center has contributed to Utah's creative community for decades, and we’re honored to share the clay-loving space with them.