The Industrial Arts Institute is adding a new Art & Design Enrichment series to our offerings, focused on structured, hobby‑based creative workshops. These offerings enhance our capabilities by providing structured, hobby‑based workshops for individuals in the community who are interested in hands‑on creative work conducted in a professional studio environment.

These workshops are being developed to include a range of art and design disciplines such as pottery, ceramics, Raku, and other process‑driven creative methods that align with our facilities and instructional strengths. Each session is led by experienced artists who provide demonstrations, guided project development, and clear, practical instruction appropriate for hobby‑level participation.

Participants can expect technique‑focused instruction, small class sizes, and dedicated studio time to complete their work. As this enrichment series grows, additional workshops will be introduced to broaden the creative options available. IAI’s Arts Enrichment programming serves as a community resource, providing structured, skill‑building creative experiences that complement the institute’s broader mission while remaining distinctly hobby‑focused.

The first workshop in this series is Raku pottery, a three‑session experience focused on forming, glazing, and firing using the traditional Raku method. Participants complete finished pieces at the end of the workshop. The sessions are led by Joe Donna — MFA in Ceramics, Master’s in Photography, and seasoned Raku Artist — whose background blends technical mastery with hands‑on creative practice.

Raku Workshop

Industrial Arts Institute – 20902 Washington Street, Onaway, MI

Instructor: Joe Donna, MFA in Ceramics, Master’s in Photography, and Raku Artist
Schedule: One day per week, 3 weeks (June 17th, 24th, and July 1st, 2026)
Time: 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Cost: $75 (includes reasonable amounts of clay, studio supplies, and raku firing)
Class Size: 8–10 participants

Class Description

This workshop will introduce the participant to the process of creating Raku-fired pottery. The workshop will involve creating items from clay, glazing them, and firing them. It will be open to all levels of experience, from a “first-time exposure to creating something from clay” to the well-seasoned potter. The workshop will consist of three class periods, one day per week for three weeks.

* All tools, clay, and other necessary materials will be provided. *

We’re gearing up for the next wave of community Art & Design workshops. Fresh sessions are being shaped behind the scenes, combining creative exploration with the Industrial Arts Institute’s signature hands‑on approach. Watch this space — new workshops will be posted here soon.