About Creative Clay Center (CCC)
Creative Clay Center (CCC) represents a lifelong dream to nurture creativity, foster learning, and build a community around the art of ceramics. Born from a deep-seated passion for artistic expression, CCC is envisioned as a sanctuary where individuals from all walks of life can come together to explore, create, and celebrate the timeless craft of pottery.
Our goal is to transform a spacious barn in Oxford, MA into a vibrant workshop where ideas and mud blend to form artful expressions, set to open its doors in 2025.
Sumiyo Toribe is a fine artist, currently focusing on watercolor as her primary medium. Born in Kyoto, Japan, and holding an MFA in Painting from the Savannah College of Art and Design, she has achieved recognition through numerous exhibits, awards, and publications. Since 2015, she has studied under master ceramic artist Hiroshi Nakayama, who not only taught her ceramic art but also guided her in selling her work at various art fairs. These experiences with artists, crafters, and art enthusiasts inspired Sumiyo to create the Creative Clay Center (CCC), a space dedicated to fostering community and creativity. Through CCC, she aims to bring people together, providing a platform for artistic expression and connection.
Hiroshi Nakamayama is a master ceramic artist. His journey began in Humauaka village, Argentina, where he first learned pottery. He further honed his craft in various studios across South America before establishing himself as a studio potter in New York and later in Massachusetts. His work embodies the Japanese idea of beauty—understated, elegant simplicity with a deeply spiritual appreciation of nature. Hiroshi's art is part of the permanent collections at prestigious institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and the Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento.
Hiroshi Nakayama will be at CCC, growing apprentices and passing on skills and knowledge, watching over the center and community to grow.
