In this four-week Art Afterschool clay program, participants design imaginative clay objects that blur the line between function and fantasy. Using handbuilding techniques, young artists create “nonsense tools” inspired by everyday objects, reimagined with unusual, playful, or unexpected purposes. Through sketching, experimentation, and sculpture, participants explore how form, structure, and surface can suggest imagined use. 

Inspired by contemporary artists and museum installations at The New Children’s Museum, participants examine how artists transform ordinary objects into creative, thought-provoking designs. 

Why This Matters 
Inventing new forms encourages older youth to think creatively and critically about the objects that shape daily life. By questioning function and imagining new possibilities, participants strengthen problem-solving skills and conceptual thinking. 

What To Expect 

• Designing and building clay objects with unusual or imagined purposes 

• Learning clay handbuilding and basic structural techniques 

• Exploring the relationship between form, function, and imagination 

• Observing contemporary artworks and museum installations 

• Developing, sharing, and reflecting on ideas through discussion and critique 

 
These programs are designed as small-group experiences with limited enrollment. Register now to secure your artist’s spot today! 

 
Tickets + Museum Admission 

• Registration is required and includes 1 spot. Members get $20 off any Art Afterschool series. Please be sure you are logged into your Member Portal to activate the discount.   

• Registration for this workshop does not include general Museum admission. If you’d like to explore the Museum, separate admission is required and available at the Welcome Desk. All participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult to explore the Museum.  

 Drop-off + Pick-up 

• Location: Enter Artopia: NCM Creative Studios from the Union Street side of The New Children’s Museum, near the corner of Union and Island. 

• Program check-in is from 3:45 pm-4 pm. After class pick-up is from 6 pm-6:15 pm. 

• All artists must be signed in and out of each session. Only adults listed at registration may pick up your child. Please confirm your authorized adult list at drop-off. We cannot release artists to anyone not listed or without valid ID. 

Questions about parking, accessibility, or our cancellation policy?  
Visit our Artopia: NCM Creative Studios FAQs page for all the details you need to plan your visit: https://thinkplaycreate.org/artopia-faqs/