At the Sep. 29, 2026  LFAA meeting Charlotte Perkins, owner of The Ceramic Studio Etc., will give a brief introduction to fused glass and demonstrate the basics of cutting and layering glass to create a design. Participants will then create their own small fused glass ornament using a selection of colorful glass pieces and simple design elements. Because of the limited time, designs will focus on easy, creative techniques that don't require extensive glass cutting. Finished ornaments will be fired in the kiln at The Ceramic Studio Etc. and will be ready for pickup at the next meeting.

Charlotte Perkins is the owner of The Ceramic Studio Etc. in Howell, Michigan, a creative studio where people of all ages can explore pottery, clay, fused glass, and other hands-on art experiences.

Charlotte has been creating and teaching art programs for more than 20 years. Her background includes developing and leading summer camps and creative programs in both Michigan and California, before bringing that experience home and opening The Ceramic Studio Etc. in Howell. Over the past five years, she has grown the studio into a place where people can not only paint pottery, but also learn to work with clay, throw on the pottery wheel, create stoneware, and explore fused glass.

Charlotte grew up surrounded by art. Her grandfather was Gerome Kamrowski, an accomplished artist and longtime professor at the University of Michigan School of Art and Design. He instilled in her a love of experimentation and the idea that art is always evolving. She credits him with teaching her to be curious, try new mediums, and not be afraid to discover something new along the way.

That philosophy continues to shape Charlotte’s approach to The Ceramic Studio Etc. She loves creating opportunities for people to experiment with art, learn new techniques, and discover the satisfaction of making something themselves.

Here is a list of upcoming speakers or activities for each month:

• Sep.- Ceramic Studio 

• Nov.- Harvest Dinner

Artist of the Year: Each Meeting Bring a piece of art and members can vote for their favorites. At the end of the year, votes are tallied and an Artist is Named Artist of the Year.  

Artist of the Year 2025: Liz Rowe