“Creativity has always been a part of me,” says Katia Liberato, owner of Creative Insight Pottery & More.
After moving to Canada from Brazil, she pursued her passion for ceramics at Sheridan College and opened the studio in 2011.
“It all began in my basement, where I worked on my own pieces while offering small classes. Over time, I felt inspired to create something bigger—a welcoming space where more people could come together to explore their creativity," she says. "Waterdown, with its strong sense of community, felt like the perfect place to bring this vision to life.”
The Main Street South studio's 1-Day Wheel Throwing class is perfect for those who’ve never worked with clay before and want to try pottery before committing to a full 10-week session. Talented instructors provide guidance tailored to each student, making sure everyone feels comfortable, supported and inspired.
“I love how pottery has no limits—you can make the simplest little pinch pot and turn it into something beautiful, or you can push yourself to create sculptures, even furniture," says Liberato. "Clay is forgiving. If you make a mistake, you just squish it back down and start again. But what I love most is how it feels—the softness of the clay in my hands, the way it takes shape as I play with it. It’s like being a kid again, learning through touch, experimenting, and just enjoying the
process.”
All pottery classes incorporate both wheel throwing and hand-building techniques, glazing and surface decoration. Drop-in classes focus on hand-built mugs and projects such as small dishes, candle holders and seasonal pieces, like Christmas ornaments during the holidays.
“Our drop-in classes follow the same structure as our private parties, with one key difference—when you book a private party, you get the entire studio to yourself," says Liberato. "You’re welcome to bring your own food, drinks, and music, making it a fully customized and private experience.”
Pottery & Wine Drop-ins are another option for those who want to spend time with friends.
"Bring your favourite bottle of wine, enjoy great conversation and get creative with a hand-building project at the table," says Liberato. "Everyone also gets a turn on the wheel for a little extra hands-on experience.”
In addition to pottery, there are workshops and classes in fused glass, acrylic painting, soap making, jewelry making, candle making, and more.
Every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Creative Insight Pottery & More hosts Family Drop-ins, when parents and kids can bond through creativity. Each week features a new hand-building project, from adorable animal and monster planters to small candle holders and coil pots.
There’s also a week-long March Break Art & Pottery Camp for kids ages 5-14 who love to create. Half of each day is dedicated to visual arts, including drawing, painting, and mixed media, and the other half is all about pottery—exploring hand-building, wheel throwing and sculpting.
“I’ve always loved to use my imagination and create, not only objects but everything around me, from a cozy space to a nice trip, delicious food, and of course, my own pottery work," says Liberato. "The most important creation for me is feelings, and the studio has given me everything I need to follow my path. It allows me to create a beautiful and inspiring space where people can come to explore, relax and feel good.
"The students meet interesting people, they share their stories, and they learn from each other."
