Photo by Marshall Smith
Two weeks into her ownership of Mountain Pottery, Helen Hixon could not be happier or more enthusiastic.
The working studio offers ceramic classes, including all materials, use of design tools and instruction, and Hixon is fully involved in the studio’s evolution.
Detailed information regarding classes and studio memberships will be available on the website, although it is currently being redesigned. Check back for more extensive information on class availability, workshops, memberships and fees at www.mountain-pottery.com or call (951) 659-7117.
The studio space is spotless, expansive and light-filled, creating a positive atmosphere in which to work. Hixon, although not a ceramicist by training or trade, is a positive promoter of the healing potential of creating art.
Working with artist and previous co-owner Terryann Halloran, Hixon is planning an ambitious menu of classes, workshops and “give backs” to the Idyllwild community — classes for home schoolers, ceramic scholarships for students of all ages and free guest artist presentations, such as Art Tobias’ lecture/discussion and video about celebrated potters in history.
Photo by Marshall Smith
In January 2019, Hixon will launch a year-long course in “The Artist’s Way,” based on the book by Julia Cameron.
“It’s a dream to live here,” said Hixon, whose Los Angeles-based career featured work as a genetic counselor at Cedars Sinai Medical Center and as a science and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) teacher at Beverly Hills High School.
Hixon already is extensively community-involved. She volunteers at the Nature Center, the soon to be Idyllwild Demonstration Garden, the Idyllwild Library and the Garden Club. In her otherwise free time, she plays pickleball.
Her Idyllwild roots run deep. She and husband Jeff have been part-timers since 1988. They were married at ISOMATA in 1989.
Two years ago, they moved to the Hill to become full-time residents. Her introduction to Mountain Pottery came through hands-on art creation. She had a birthday party at the studio in 2017 and created her first dish.
She subsequently took month memberships and enjoyed the experiences so much that she decided to buy the studio. “Giving back is my motivation,” said Hixon of how she plans to move the studio forward in the months to come.
