Our Story

Muddy Waters Clay Center was founded on February 5, 2008, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit by a dedicated community of 12 people who believed in building a shared space for clay and creativity. From the beginning, Muddy Waters has been a member-owned organization with a mission to promote and provide for the creation, education, and enjoyment of ceramic arts in the greater Grand Forks area. Muddy Waters has now grown to its max of 40 members. 

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From approximately 2007 through 2011, Muddy Waters operated out of a series of rented spaces as the organization worked to establish itself and grow. 

In December 2008, Muddy Waters held its first open house. Don Miller celebrated the occasion by throwing pots on his wheel while wearing a Santa hat. At that time, the studio had no working kilns and only three wheels, all brought in by members. Despite the modest setup, a large crowd came to tour the facility and purchase pottery fully donated by the Founding Members. The proceeds from that event became the seed money from which Muddy Waters truly began to grow.

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Shortly after opening, Muddy Waters welcomed its first throwing students. One of those early students was Skip Haag, now our current president, whose leadership has helped guide the organization through years of growth and change.

A major milestone came on January 18, 2018, when Muddy Waters purchased its building at 2014 13th Ave N in Grand Forks. Since then, the space has continually expanded and evolved to support both members and the wider community. Today, the facility includes a dedicated hand building room, wheel room, glazing room, kiln room, gallery space, office, firing facilities, and personal studio spaces for members.

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As a member-owned organization, Muddy Waters provides a supportive environment for learning and creativity. The center offers classes for adults and children, hosts demonstrations at events like ArtWise, Art Fest, and the Farmers Market, and highlights member work through the “Mudder of the Month” program in its front gallery.

Muddy Waters has grown far beyond what its founders imagined, thanks to the generosity of its supporters and the hard work of its members. Today, it stands as a welcoming hub for ceramic arts in the Grand Forks community.