POTTERY CAMP — Several students participated in a recent Pottery Camp held at the Sycamore Youth Center. Those in fourth through eighth grade had an opportunity to learn the fundamentals of pottery making and learn from local artist Paul Monroe of Spyridon Studio. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — Students got their hands dirty in the best possible way, by taking part in the Sycamore Youth Center’s Pottery Camp.

Participants learned the fundamentals of pottery making through hands-on instruction, creativity and fun, according to Bobbyjon Bauman, executive director of the center.

Led by local artist Paul Monroe of Spyridon Studio, the camp welcomed those in grades fourth through eighth, engaging them in the ancient art of ceramics.

Throughout the course of four days, campers completed two original pottery projects using a combination of an electric potter’s wheel and traditional sculpting tools.

“It was incredible to see the excitement and concentration on each student’s face as they worked with the clay,” Bauman said. “For many of them, this was their first time using a potter’s wheel. They absolutely loved it.”

The camp focused not only on technical skills such as shaping and centering clay, but it emphasized the importance of patience, creativity and focus — traits that carry over into academic and personal growth.

Students learned about the kiln-firing process and had the opportunity to paint their creations, adding a personal touch to their final works.

Special thanks were extended to Monroe, who brought not only professional instruction to the camp, but his infectious enthusiasm toward the campers. His Spyridon Studio, located at 189 N. Fourth St. in Steubenville, offers classes and handmade pottery for sale year-round.

The Sycamore Pottery Camp was one of 18 free summer camps being hosted this year by the Sycamore Youth Center.

The camps provide hundreds of students from across the Ohio Valley with opportunities to explore their interests in art, science, dance, music, leadership and more, Bauman stated. To learn about upcoming camps or to register your child, visit sycamorecenter.com.