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Whimsical Organic Vases: Exploring Form

Explore the playful side of clay in this handbuilding class focused on creating 1–2 whimsical, organic vases. As a starting point, students will learn coiling, slip and score, and attachment techniques to bring imaginative forms to life. Each week builds from concept sketches and prototypes to fully realized ceramic pieces. Along the way, you’ll experiment with surface textures, test glazes, and finish your creations with vibrant color and personality. Perfect for beginners and returning makers, this class invites creativity, exploration, and a love of imperfect, organic beauty.

Please Note: The first two sessions will take place from 12-5pm (5 hours) and the final session will take place from 12-3pm (3 hours).

General Tuition: $365
Pay-It-Forward Tuition: $390
Reduced Tuition (Limited): $315

Accessibility Notice –
This class takes place in the Sculpture Lab which is located on the first floor.  This class may require materials or processes that are hazardous for animals. Please email classes@kala.org prior to enrolling so we can assess if we are able to accommodate you and your service animal safely and efficiently.

  • Tuition: $365
  • Location: Sculpture Lab
  • Instructor: Jo Ko
  • 3 Classes
  • Saturday, March 21, 2026 — April 4, 2026
  • 10am — 3pm
  • TBD Materials Fee - Payable to the instructor on the first day

Register

About the Instructor:

Jo Ko is a first-generation Chinese American, self-taught ceramic artist based in her hometown of Oakland, California. She earned her BFA in Design from San Jose State University in 2013 and spent ten years working across the design industry—from nonprofit documentary storytelling to art direction in the photo world. After years of creative work in digital spaces, Jo was drawn to ceramics as a more tactile, expressive medium. A single workshop revealed her ability to translate her design knowledge into sculptural form, allowing her concepts to evolve more freely through hands-on, intuitive making. This marked a turning point, and in 2022, she left the design field to pursue ceramics full-time. Jo’s sculptural work is rooted in the surreal and organic, often drawing inspiration from microscopic ecosystems, imagined organisms, and ambiguous forms. Her process embraces unpredictability and transformation. Jo was at Greenhouse Residency in the Winter 2025 resident artist cohort at Mendocino Art Center. She has exhibited at CCACA, SOMArts, Julie Steingart Gallery, Cult Aimee Friberg, and Sobu’s Vessel Show and has taught advanced handbuilding workshops including Funky Furniture and Sculptural Lamps at Clayroom SF.