John Beck • Operations Manager | teacher

I found my passion for ceramics during my freshman year at Oak Park River Forest High School under the instruction of Pennie Ebsen. During my time there, I learned how a studio operates and became a part of an amazing clay community meeting potters from all around the country who got their start in the same program. I jumped on the opportunity to continue this experience when GPTetrev Pottery opened, working  as a seasonal manager, studio tech and resident artist while I finished my undergraduate degree in engineering.

I look forward to shaping a new clay community here in Oak Park and to sharing the art form which has so influenced me and my skills as a teacher and collaborative leader.

Emily Christopherson • Teacher

Clay was always a quiet interest of mine; one that really emerged during my time as a student at OPRF. Eleven years later, working with clay has become my constant. I focus on making functional objects that create a subtle, tactile experience for whoever uses them.

I started teaching a few years ago through an arts non profit and really appreciate how much I’ve ended up learning! For me, being a part of the ceramics community is an opportunity to share knowledge, ideas, and fellowship.

Bridget doherty • teacher

I walked into the OPRF wheel throwing room over 13 years ago and immediately was driven to learn about every aspect of a clay studio and working with clay. I’ve worked and taught all ages at many different studios, and I am currently the ceramics teacher at OPRF High School.

I strongly believe in the supportive, sharing and creative community that clay creates. I teach because of my passion  and I aim to share that with others. I love helping students find their creative home in clay.

sarah luepker • teacher

Ceramics, both functional and sculptural, has been a love of mine since I first came across it at OPRF High School my freshman year. To me, wheel throwing embodies grit and a growth mindset. It takes time and energy to learn. It's frustrating, and its rewards are not immediately apparent. However, to anyone who puts their heart into the craft, it teaches determination, attention to detail, and appreciation for everyday acts, from the drinking of morning coffee to sharing a bowl of ice cream with a friend.

I am an Illinois State certified teacher and have been teaching pottery classes for over four years. I am so grateful to be a part of the ViaClay community, and to have the opportunity to share the joys of ceramics.

Gabe tetrev • founder | teacher

I first tried pottery the summer I turned 10 and found a second home in the Wheel Throwing Club at OPRF High School. Now, my work at the wheel is an essential daily practice. In my craft, I try to unite beauty and utility following in the forms and traditions of the great English and American potters, especially Bernard Leach and Warren MacKenzie. I feel so connected when customers tell me how much they love using my plates and bowls everyday — appreciating the joy of simple forms while sharing a meal is a centuries-old satisfaction.

I am very thankful for the Oak Park community that has supported my studio and retail store on Oak Park Avenue, GPTetrev Pottery, since 2018. ViaClay is our response to the hundreds of requests to offer classes we’ve fielded over the last three years.

In 2021, my retail storefront merged with ViaClay and my personal practice moved to the space on Marion Street. I’m very proud we’ve survived these last challenging years together and love working with so many talented friends and colleagues everyday at ViaClay!