For Emma Hansen, ceramics started as a teenage passion—but it didn’t take long before her artistic spark became something much bigger. After years of managing other studios and working corporate jobs on the side, Emma took a leap of faith to purchase a building and launch her dream business. In November 2024, she officially opened The Clay Den, a community-focused ceramic studio in Central Illinois.
The Clay Den offers classes, private events, and memberships for potters, with a mission to make art accessible for everyone. What began as a one-woman operation quickly grew into a creative hub, where members and students have formed a tight-knit community centered around learning, making, and sharing. Emma started out running the entire business herself, but thanks to her rapid growth, she has now hired three additional employees to help run classes and events. “One of our biggest wins has been creating this little community within the studio,” Emma shares. “Watching it grow so quickly has been amazing.”
Like many new business owners, Emma faced early hurdles with staffing and visibility, but she found support through the Illinois SBDC at Bradley University. Working closely with advisor Eric Sampson, she developed her business plan, secured financing, and handled essential steps like registering her LLC and managing sales tax. “I had no idea what I was doing,” she shared, “and Eric walked me through every step. I wouldn’t be here without that help.”
Emma’s journey from part-time ceramicist to full-time business owner is a powerful example of how determination, community, and the right resources can shape a creative vision into reality. Today, The Clay Den is not just a teaching studio—it’s a welcoming space for anyone to explore their creativity and discover the joy of working with clay.
The Turner Center is proud to support Emma Hansen and The Clay Den, and we look forward to seeing the continued impact of her studio on the local arts community.
Contact Information
(309) 989-0521