Black Hound Clay Studio West was founded in 2016 as an inclusive community space for ceramic artists. We are located in the heart of West Philadelphia right off Baltimore Avenue. Offering affordable studio workspace, classes and events throughout the year, BHCS aims to be the locus of the Philadelphia ceramics community west of the Schuylkill River.

For more information on our sister studio in South Philly, please visit Black Hound Clay Studio South.

Mission Statement:

At Black Hound, we truly believe that making things is an essential part of being a human and that everyone should have access to the tools that allow them to be creative. We believe in community care and people over profit, and that for-profit businesses have an obligation to be an engine for good in their communities. 

Black Hound Clay Studio is committed to advancing anti-racism within the ceramics field. We are aware of the dynamics of a white-owned arts organization existing in a majority Black neighborhood, as well as the fact that the ceramics field is a white dominated field where minorities are vastly underrepresented. Part of the mission of BHCS is working to shift the structural barriers that prevent minorities from engaging in ceramics. 

How we foster accessibility:

The Member Community Support Fund: The MCSF is a mutual aid inspired program started in 2022 that helps defray the costs of monthly membership. Those that are enrolled in the Fund receive 30% off their monthly membership dues. This cost is supported by monthly donations from other members, our Mystery Grab Bag sales at our events and through other fundraising efforts like our yearly T-Shirt design contest. The MCSF is not means tested and anyone can enroll at any time.

Sliding Scale for One Day Workshops: All of our handbuilding workshops have operated on a sliding scale basis since 2020. Our 3 tier pricing system allows participants to pick a price that is comfortable for their financial circumstances. All participants, regardless of the pricing tier they select, receive the same experience at our workshops.

Sliding Scale for Private Events: We offer sliding scale pricing for POC groups for private clay workshops. 

Installment Payment Plans for Classes: We offer the option of paying for 8 week classes in 2 or 3 installments over several months. 

Community Organizations We Love and Support:

South Philadelphia Community Fridge is a community-centered and 100% volunteer organization dedicated to giving all Philadelphians access to fresh and healthy food.

The People's Fridge is a community driven free food pop-up and warehouse in West Philadelphia, PA. For the last 5 years, TPF has distributed fresh produce, groceries, pantry items, and nourishing meals to our neighbors. 

We make regular monthly donations to both of these organizations to support their missions; we encourage you to do the same!