In the midst of the winter chills, Slipstream Clay Studio offers its members a place of close community and creative expression.
Owner, operator and instructor Vicki Wilson relocated from Waldport and opened the new location on Southwest Plymouth Drive just east of Bellfountain Road in June 2024. Trained in sculpture, with an MFA from Portland State University, she holds classes, mentors and works on her own craft at the studio.
“As much as I enjoy the coast, the winter weather is punishing … the reality of what an earthquake could do was palpable. It was a decision we undertook as a family and once we made it, Corvallis area was the clear choice,” Wilson said.
Alongside the logistical aspects of the move, she mentioned the inspiration and opportunity that Corvallis has brought to the studio and her personal art.
“The view of Marys Peak that I see every day between the studio and my home blows me away. The landscape feeds my love of texture and is definitely provoking a new color palette,” Wilson said. “Since coming to Corvallis, I’m showing and selling my work more than I have in the past. There is a great deal of artistic activity in this area.”
Some of that activity includes the Art in the Valley Gallery, the Philomath Open Studios tour, the monthly Corvallis Arts Walk and events like the Fall Festival. Wilson is also involved with the Oregon Potters Association and the Willamette Ceramics Guild and will feature work at the OPA Showcase in Portland.
Slipstream Clay Studio is different from the experience offered at OSU’s craft center, or other larger pottery studios. There are strict limits on capacity as well as important expectations of members.
Wilson explained that students are not often at the studio, but certainly, employees of OSU attend, as well as other community members.
“Everyone here knows that I expect kindness, courteousness and safe work practices. I’m proud of the little community that exists here and plan to keep things small and discerning,” Wilson said.
In addition to memberships and courses, the studio offers one-night try-it classes as well as take-home kits. More information can be found at the website.
