The Downtown Beat, by Nina Welch

Olas Ceramics opened on March 1 at 707 N. El Camino Real across from CVS Pharmacy, with free parking in the back. According to owner, Kyle Denton, the studio has been booked solid with new and recurring students ever since. “I wanted to open this studio to give people a chance to try out the craft of pottery and to offer them a welcoming and sustainable environment to learn and be creative,” says Kyle.

Kyle’s education started digitally at Saddleback College with graphic design classes. His desire was to pursue a degree in art to stay within the surf and skate industry. After transferring to San Francisco State, he discovered ceramics classes, and his focus changed. “Initially I found it very challenging, but determined to figure it out,” he says.

Eventually, he was hooked, and after delving into the art of ceramics, he was able to bring in different mediums such as printmaking and sculpture work. Hence, the graphic artist changed his major to Studio Arts with a focus in Ceramics.

Following graduation, Kyle bought a one-way ticket to Raglan, New Zealand to help his friend start a pottery company. He loved Raglan with the best left-hander surf breaks in the world. However, after three and a half years as a production potter, making the same shape over and over, he knew it was time to go home.

The intro to ceramics classes are the most popular and can be purchased in a four-pack. Each lesson is 90-minutes with instruction on two pieces. One is hand-building and one is wheel-throwing. No experience is necessary, and all tools and materials are included. After the piece is created, the first firing is the bisque and then a week later comes the glaze firing. Recurring classes are also offered to students who are looking to dive deeper into the process or looking to progress and build on what skills have already been developed.

A new and recurring student, Chris, came in to make a dog dish and was quite impressed with Kyle. “He helps you with the potter’s vibe,” she says. Kyle commented that he hasn’t heard that term, but maybe it’s because he walks her through throwing side-by-side talking her through each step. The classes have become community-oriented because the students of all ages hang out together as friends.

Kyle is a true San Clemente local. He attended San Clemente High School and is an avid surfer. He loves to say, “The beauty of ceramics is it gives you the chance to surf when the waves are good and work when they’re not,” His inspiration comes from waves (Olas) and surfing plus nature and beach scenes. His logo depicts the San Clemente ambiance.

Being a potter and teaching ceramics, people always remind Kyle about the scene in ‘Ghost.’ Because of this popular movie scene, he is thinking of having a Friday night date night and call it “the ghost moment.” Kyle is always thinking of new creative ways to promote the community of his hometown by implementing new classes and events.

www.olasceramics.com.