Last night, I was standing naked in front of a group of equally naked strangers, all excited to try their hand at pottery. While we were doing our normal introduction and the class instructor and owner of Zerimar Clay, Pete Ramirez, outlined the flow of the evening, it struck me. This was the first anniversary of our little nude pottery classes.

Throughout the night as I watched people struggle to learn a new skill and laugh together through their frustration, I reflected on the remarkable experiences, growth, and connections that were made possible because Pete and I decided to take a chance. From the very first class in January 2023, we set out on an uncharted path, blending the challenging yet therapeutic nature of pottery with the ethos of Natural Pursuits.

We created a space where queer individuals come together to explore their creativity, hang out naked, and bond in the process. This journey has been about breaking barriers and allowing participants to express themselves in an environment free from judgment.

In this piece, I’ll share how the class began and some of my favorite moments. And, although the class is normally photo-free, I occasionally bring my camera, so I’ll share a few of those images too.

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Nude Pottery Polaroids

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How It Started

The story of our pottery classes is serendipitous. It all began on an unassuming day in December 2022, when I, along with a few friends, decided to try our hands at pottery as our holiday gathering. We searched google and landed on a new spot in Hell’s Kitchen. It was there that we met Pete, the studio owner. Pete Ramirez is a potter with a decade’s experience teaching people to shape clay. He opened his first studio a month or two before I walked through the door.

I was bad at pottery on my first attempt. Failing to create anything but collapsed bowls and dirty hands. I didn’t think of the messy nature of the activity, so my clothes were quickly very dirty. Seeing me struggle, Pete came over to give me some one-on-one attention. To distract me from the activity at hand, he asked me what I did for a living. I told him about Natural Pursuits, “I host nudist events where people get naked and make art.” He casually said, “I’ve always wanted to teach a nude class.”

Seizing the moment, I answered simply, “I can make that happen.” His laughter mixed with curiosity, Pete asked, “How soon?” I matched his seriousness, “How about next month?”

Initially, I sensed Pete thought I was bullshitting him, but post-class, we set a date. I started recruiting and we were both surprised when the first class sold out quickly. It was clear – we were onto something special.

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Behind the Scenes – Nude Pottery

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How It’s Going

Over the past year, we’ve hosted 11 classes with more than 80 students. These classes have become a place for more than just learning pottery. They’ve turned into a space where people grow personally, build community, and share memorable experiences.

Improving Skills and Building Confidence

It’s been rewarding to see our students improve. We have many regulars. Most started with no experience, unsure about handling clay. With time, they’ve gained skill and confidence, creating unique pottery pieces. It’s been fun watching them provide tips to newcomers who they see struggling.

Couples and Friends Making Pottery Together

Our classes have also been popular for dates and friends looking for a different kind of experience. Couples mark the moment and their creations, drawing hearts around their initials in the clay. At our last class, one regular showed off a new tattoo. I saw it and started laughing. It was the adorably bad Snorlax interpretation his boyfriend had painted on a cup during one of our slip pottery classes.

Personal Breakthroughs

It’s fulfilling to see students go from struggling with a new skill to suddenly making something recognizable out of the clay. I get to see their face go from frustration and anxiety to pride.

New Friendships Forming

A special part of these classes has been watching strangers become friends. People who were initially reserved have opened up, helping each other with difficult techniques or admiring each other’s work. I’m personally grateful for the friendships I’ve made with both Pete and the regulars.

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As we mark the anniversary of our pottery classes, my heart is full of gratitude. Each shared laugh, formed friendship, and uniquely crafted piece of pottery embodies the spirit of Natural Pursuits. These moments are not just memories; they’re the pillars of our community, continuously inspiring us.

Every spin of the wheel and touch of clay represents more than just pottery making – it’s a journey of self-expression, acceptance, and profound personal transformation. In these classes, the act of being naked does more than just level the playing field; it opens the door to vulnerability, trust, and genuine connection. The laughter, struggles, triumphs, and joys of creation are all testaments to the bravery and openness of our attendees.

A special thanks goes to Pete, whose expertise and compassionate guidance have been invaluable, and to each participant who has brought their creativity and openness into our studio. Your trust in this process and in each other has turned these classes into something extraordinary.

Looking ahead, we’re excited about the future. We eagerly anticipate the new memories to be created, the skills to be developed, and the friendships to be forged. Our classes are a blank canvas, awaiting the touch of those who will join us next. Whether you’re exploring pottery for the first time or seeking a community where you can be your authentic self, we invite you to be part of this journey.

Here’s to many more years of exploring the intersection of art and identity, of fostering a space where creativity and self-discovery flourish. Thank you for being an integral part of our story, and I hope you’ll continue to be a part of our future adventures.