Kaylee Eichholz is the owner of Community Mud, a pottery studio in Parker. I had the opportunity to get to know her love for art and community. What I love about this interview is hearing Kaylee’s passion for bringing people together in a creative and empowering way.
She and her team are celebrating their one-year anniversary Sunday, May 18th at Bodega Beer Company (formerly, Fiction Beer Parker) from 5 to 8 p.m. They’d love to see you and connect! In the meantime, I hope her words encourage you to join a class and experience Community Mud for yourself.
Could you please share about Community Mud?
Community Mud is a vibrant hub for pottery enthusiasts of all levels, fostering a welcoming and collaborative environment where creativity flourishes. We offer a range of experiences, from 24/7 studio memberships that empower experienced potters to create independently to in-depth, guided multi-week classes covering techniques like wheel throwing and hand-building, designed to cultivate skills and build connections. We also host engaging one-time introductory events, providing a relaxed and playful space for newcomers to experience the joy of working with clay. At Community Mud, we’re passionate about making pottery approachable and accessible, building a supportive community where everyone feels inspired to explore their creative potential.
What inspired you to open Community Mud?
My journey to opening Community Mud began when I moved to Parker in 2022 and started looking around for a studio to continue to foster my own love of pottery. When I was unable to find an existing studio to join, I just set up a home studio in the basement of my home to keep creating. I quickly learned that what I loved about pottery wasn't just the creative outlet, it was about being part of a community where the joy of creating was shared, where learning was a collaborative experience and where the passion for clay brought people together. I found myself longing for a place where I could not only continue my own pottery journey but also connect with others who shared the same love for the craft.
Driven by a desire to create a space for inspiration, learning and connection, we opened our doors in May of 2024. It wasn't just about opening a studio; it was about building a community where beginners could feel comfortable and supported in their learning and where experienced potters could push their creative boundaries. A place where the shared love of clay would create lasting friendships and where the act of creating would be celebrated. That's what Community Mud is now, and that's what I hope it will continue to be.
What do you love about having a business in Parker?
I've been deeply moved by the incredible support Parker has shown Community Mud. From our amazing members and students to the generous advice and collaboration from fellow business owners, this town has truly embraced us. Even the local government has been remarkably helpful. Parker has proven to be the perfect place for a small business. I'm immensely grateful for this welcoming community.
How do you keep a healthy mindset as a business owner?
Keeping a healthy mindset as a business owner can be challenging. The 'tyranny of the urgent' is real, and there's always something demanding your attention. I've discovered that intentionally and actively making time for mental resets is key. For me, that's diving into a good book, studio playtime on personal projects, or hanging out with my favorite people and dogs. It's a constant effort to remind myself that prioritizing balance, even if it means postponing something seemingly urgent, is a long-term investment in both my well-being and the business.
What is your word of advice to artists?
My best advice for artists is just to try it. Try that unconventional concept, experiment with that unfamiliar technique, sell your creations, or launch that business you've been dreaming of. You'll either find success or learn something essential. Either way, you win.