A Creative Hub Rooted in Community
In the heart of Minneapolis’ vibrant arts scene, Mudluk Pottery Studio is more than just a creative space—it is a hub for artistic expression, inclusivity, and community. A grassroots business owned by Black, queer, and women artists, Mudluk welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and skill levels to explore the transformative power of art.
Founded by Sayge Carroll, Keegan Xavi, and Katrina Knutson, Mudluk is committed to serving the creative needs of its community while fostering a safe and welcoming environment. The studio offers classes in wheel throwing, glaze application, and even summer camps for children, providing artists at all levels with opportunities to develop their craft.
“Mudluk prides itself on being a safe space for artists to explore their creative selves while connecting with others in their communities,” said Carroll. “Art is not an isolated activity—it thrives through community, and Mudluk understands and honors that.”
A Space for Art and Storytelling
Beyond pottery, Mudluk also houses an in-house gallery that showcases diverse artistic mediums, amplifying the voices of local artists. This commitment underscores the studio’s belief that art flourishes through interaction and engagement with a wider audience.
Carroll, an award-winning artist, challenges traditional artistic practices by drawing deeply from her ancestral lineage. She incorporates photographs of her ancestors into her ceramics, merging history with contemporary art to tell their stories in a lasting way.
“Truly, this is my ancestors’ biggest dream,” Carroll said. “To be in grad school, to look into the faces of those who came before me, to honor them in my work—it’s powerful. I started transferring their images onto ceramics, and when people saw it, they wanted to do the same for their own loved ones. Ceramics last longer than we do, and this is a way to preserve their presence.”
Fostering Safe Spaces for Marginalized Communities
Mudluk Pottery Studio is also a vital space for marginalized communities, including those who identify as queer, trans, Black, and Indigenous. The founders are dedicated to creating an environment where people from diverse backgrounds can come together in shared creativity.
“We’re queer, we’re trans, we’re Black, we’re Indigenous,” Carroll said. “We’re building the kind of safe space we want to see in the world.”
Community Partnerships and Outreach
The studio collaborates with organizations across Minneapolis, such as Equinox Crew, SPYS, PRI, ThinkSelf, Survivors of Boarding Schools, and the Indian Health Board. These partnerships provide specialized art classes for groups including adults with disabilities, deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, and Black and Native communities. Through these efforts, Mudluk empowers people to use art as a means of connection and self-expression.
A Lasting Impact Through Art
By fostering artistic exploration and community engagement, Mudluk Pottery Studio plays an integral role in shaping Minneapolis’ cultural landscape. It stands as a testament to the power of art—not just as something to be admired, but as a force that unites and heals.
For more information on Mudluk’s classes and events, visit www.mudlukpottery.com.
Original posting credit: Layla Amar of Lavender Magazine