Frequently Asked Questions

Are Bethel Horizons Art Ventures and Adamah Clay Studios owned and operated by a church?
No. Bethel Horizons Art Ventures and Adamah Clay Studios are part of Bethel Horizons, which is a non-profit organization having a 501C3 status. We offer both secular and religious programming.

It should be noted, however, that Bethel Lutheran Church in Madison, WI, founded Bethel Horizons 40 years ago and offers major financial and operational support. Bethel Lutheran Church also provides numerous volunteers for events, fundraisers, work days and more. Bethel Horizons has a Board of Directors that consists of Bethel Church members. The Board meets monthly and Pastor Duane Hanson is the Executive Director. Bethel Horizons was founded on the principal of four harmonies, the harmony of God, self, others and nature.

Is Communing with Clay a religious class?
No. Communing with Clay is a pottery class. Communing in this case indicates the connection of being in community with the clay and, more importantly, with the people who make up the class. Religion is not a scheduled part of this or any of the week-long workshops. Read more about the Communing with Clay and other workshops here.

Could I commute and not stay overnight for the week long workshops?
While this is possible, it is not recommended. Overnights are encouraged because a significant part of the week is focused not only on clay but also on the building of community, much of which happens at meals and in the evenings. After all, three of our summer workshops are entitled "Communing with Clay!" We believe that artists need to be in touch with one another. It's a way to learn and find affirmation from the community of artists. In the end, our lodging doesn't cost much, so it does not reduce your rate significantly.

Will there be counselors for high school students?
Only for the Earth and Art Adventure Program. This program is for ages 13 - 16, so participants will be guided by instructors during class times and by counselors during leisure hours. Communing with Clay classes do accept mature high school students, ages 16 and above. During those classes, students are expected to follow the rules, which are clearly discussed at the opening session of the workshops. In general, all student participants must be responsible enough on their own to participate in the course, attend all scheduled work times, maintain a clean workspace, clean workspace and studio at the end of the workshop, refrain from the use of drugs and alcohol, and remain on campus.

Are there other activities available besides working with clay?
Yes. Each class/workshop will have an itinerary that defines work times, breaks, meals and free time. Some week-long classes will include special events as on-site visits by area artists, trips to artists' studios, or a performance at American Players Theater (APT) near Spring Green. The 548 acres of Bethel Horizons also has hiking trails, a Nature Center, and peaceful places to read/journal and relax. And, we're right next to Governor Dodge State Park!

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes. The Bethel Horizons cooking staff can provide meals that are vegetarian. A participant should make note of his/her food preference upon registration. Advance notice allows the kitchen time to plan for such meals. Our cooks can also provide gluten free or lactose free meals upon request – please make a note of this on the registration form.

Is Adamah, Hamada spelled backwards?
This is a coincidence! Bethel Horizons – Art Ventures recognizes the significance of the Hamada name in the world of ceramics, but our name Adamah comes out of the Hebrew language. It means red ground or red clay. The root of Adamah is Adam, Adam being the first human created by God out of clay as described in the Torah and Bible.

Adamah Clay Studio, alludes to the imagery of Adam originating from the dust of the earth. The potter uses clay, the dust of the earth, to form vessels and works of art. As the Hebrews of old recognized a Master Potter whose creation was good, Bethel Horizons Art Ventures recognizes that the creation of good work will come from this studio.