Teachers' Corners

Diane Whitesel

Diane has been playing in clay for over 20 years. She specializes in functional pottery. Diane worked as a software developer for the Department of Defense. She applies this logical side in her approach to throwing pottery. 

Diane has displayed her work for many years at Arts in the Park, Maymont's Merry Market, and the RVA Clay tour.  

Philip Mills

Born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, I was brought up to enjoy both science and fantasy. At Ferrum College, I obtained a BS in chemistry, physics, and biology, and a minor in ceramics. There, I fell in love with raku and woodfirings and eventually became part owner of a wood kiln (Old Tavern Kiln Collective). I started teaching ceramics at the Visual Art Center of Richmond in 2015, and ArtHaus in 2020, including raku, wheel, and handbuilding classes. I have always enjoyed learning about plants and their care, especially landscaping design, small-scale gardening, and water gardens. I have spent time designing and constructing ponds and waterfalls, and have incorporated this interest into teaching a course on ceramics fountains. Other influences on my own pottery as well as my classes include: tailoring and bookbinding for both functional and costuming creations; and a fascination with cooking and entertaining for groups. In ceramics, all of my interests coalesce.  My classes often pursue themes of making cookware, fountains, garden or plant related vessels, and fantasy-inspired creations. It gives me great satisfaction to watch my students grow and master their skills.

Lee Hazelgrove

​Lee has been a studio potter and art educator for 35 years. His work focuses on decorative vessels, wall pieces and platters, often large in scale, created primarily on the wheel. He has exhibited in galleries throughout America and is represented in several museum collections.