A Shared Passion: Carol Chevlowe's Letter to the Community
It is almost time for Clay Art Center’s Hand In Hand Annual Benefit and Auction! Below, Board Member Carol Chevlowe shares about what Clay Art Center means to her, and how you can help make a difference.
Dear Friends,
I’ve spent the past month tucked away in my basement studio, preparing work for my first wood firing. That time — quiet, focused, and filled with clay — reminded me of what I love most about Clay Art Center: the deep connections we form through this shared passion.
Where else can you say something like, “That’s not the foot I wanted — I wish I’d bellied the wall out more,” and have someone immediately get it?
After 20 years at Clay Art Center, I’m still amazed and inspired by the people I’ve met here — especially our students. The dedicated schleppers of every tool ever made, the ones who stay late cleaning wheels, who push through failed firings, and who show up week after week with clay under their fingernails and ideas in their hearts.
That’s why I’m so excited to invite you to join us for this year’s Hand In Hand fundraiser, where we’ll be honoring our students. This year, we are proud to recognize a special group: students who have been taking classes at Clay Art Center for 15+ years. Their passion and commitment to ceramics — and to each other — inspire us every day.
All proceeds support Clay Art Center’s residencies, scholarships, and community arts programs — the heart of what we do.
Ways You Can Help:
We’d love your support in any way you’re able:
A huge thank-you to everyone who’s already signed up, bought tickets, or donated — we are so grateful! If you’re in the studio, please help us spread the word — tell your friends, post on social media, invite your families, and be an ambassador for Clay Art Center! I’ll be at Clay Art Center all day on Saturday helping with tents, decorations, and celebrating — please stop by and say hello. I’d love to see you!
Thank you again for your incredible support. Your contributions truly make a difference.
Warmly,
Carol Chevlowe
Clay Art Center Board Member, Lifelong Student
Hand In Hand 2025 will take place on October 18th from 4:00-6:00pm, and will be held outdoors at Clay Art Center, located at 40 Beech Street, Port Chester, NY 10573. The event will include delicious appetizers and drinks, beautiful ceramics, and great company. We will have seating and covered areas for your comfort. In case of rain, the event will move indoors to the Gallery and artist spaces.
Our auction features work donated by Clay Art Center artists, residents, and nationally recognized ceramic artists. Join in the excitement of the online auction and make your bid the winner for exquisite artist-donated pieces.
Your tickets, donations, and auction purchases support vital operations and our quality programming, including year-round scholarships, residencies for emerging artists, and community outreach programs, which allow Clay Art Center to promote the practice and appreciation for ceramic arts in our community.