The Art Department
ProHighlights
- Private clay and sip parties in a King Street pottery studio, with the whole space for groups of 15 to 20
- Two and a half hours of guided hand-building, with all clay and tools supplied
- Bring your own snacks and drinks, with glassware provided and champagne for groups of 15 or more
About The Art Department
The Art Department is a pottery studio at Unit 1, 133 King Street in central Newcastle. It runs public classes in wheel throwing and hand building, five-week courses for beginners and returning students, and its Clay and Sip nights, where people make pottery with a drink in hand. Teaching is aimed at complete beginners as much as experienced makers, and the studio uses mid-fire clay, so finished pieces are sturdy enough for everyday use and safe in the microwave. For celebrations, the studio takes private group bookings for birthdays, hens parties, work functions and other occasions. Private groups start at 15 guests. Midweek, a group of 15 or more gets the studio to itself, while weekend groups need to book all 20 places for exclusive use. Smaller groups can email the studio to ask about options. A private session runs for two and a half hours and includes all the clay and tools, and guests are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks, with glassware supplied. Groups of 15 or more can request a glass of champagne each when booking, and firing and glazing of two small or medium pieces per person can be added. Pricing for private events is quoted for each request. Wear old, comfortable clothes, as clay gets everywhere. The studio is a short walk from the tram on Hunter Street, and there is parking on Bolton Street and at Honeysuckle. Guests who arrive intoxicated or become so during the session may be asked to leave, so the night stays fun for everyone.
Inclusions & amenities
Activity type
Setting
Pricing
Food
Beverages
Availability
What's Included
Frequently asked questions
How many people do we need for a private booking?
Private groups start at 15 guests. Midweek, 15 or more gets you the whole studio; on weekends you need to book all 20 places for exclusive use. Email the studio if your group is smaller.
What is included in a private clay and sip?
Two and a half hours of guided pottery with all clay and tools supplied. Groups of 15 or more can request a glass of champagne each, and firing and glazing of two pieces can be added.
Can we bring food and drinks?
Yes. Guests are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks, and the studio provides glassware. Anyone who becomes intoxicated may be asked to leave.
How much does a private event cost?
Private event pricing is quoted per booking request, based on your group size, date and whether firing and glazing are included. Use the studio's group booking form to ask for a quote.
Do we need any pottery experience?
No. Sessions are designed for beginners, and the teachers guide every step. Wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting a little clay on.
Where we are
Suitable occasions
Harris Street
a month ago
The Art Department was the best experience I have ever had with my wife and kids, we book all our kids birthdays for events at the Art Department and all the kids have the best time and it allows me to catch up with some…
Harriett B-A
a month ago
Such a wonderful experience at The art department! A few girlfriends and I booked the Clay and Sip class and had an absolute blast. The teacher was so patient and attentive, making sure everyone felt supported while stil…
Hev Alkan
a month ago
The Art Department is absolutely awesome! We’ve taken our kids here multiple times during the school holidays, and they absolutely love it every time. The environment is welcoming, creative, and enjoyable, and the staff…
christopher baran
a month ago
Such a great date night idea! We had an awesome time doing something a bit different together. Really relaxed atmosphere, plenty of laughs, and the clay experience was actually way more fun than I expected. Would definit…
Is this your business? Claim this listing
