Who we Are

Jonah oversees the daily operations of the studio and helps ensure that everything—from the wheels to the kilns to the community—runs smoothly. With over 14 years of experience working with clay and more than five years of teaching, Jonah brings both deep technical knowledge and a thoughtful, hands-on approach to his role.

His personal practice (cicada.ceramics) centers on wheel throwing, with a focus on both functional and decorative forms. While creating remains a central part of his life, Jonah has found equal fulfillment in teaching and fostering creative growth in others. He is a patient, passionate instructor who meets students where they are, encouraging curiosity, confidence, and a strong foundation in clay.

As studio manager, Jonah wears many hats—supporting members and students, maintaining equipment, coordinating classes, and cultivating a welcoming space where both beginners and experienced ceramicists can thrive. He is especially drawn to the community aspect of Castro Clay, and is dedicated to building an inclusive, inspiring environment for anyone who walks through the door.

Kat is the heart behind Castro Clay, having opened the studio at the start of 2024 with a vision to create a welcoming hub for community, creativity, and connection. A native Southern California kid with a lifelong love of nature, hands-on work, and creative problem-solving, Kat brings a thoughtful, multidisciplinary background to everything she touches. She studied Fine Arts, Ceramics, Interior Design, and Early Childcare, blending those passions into spaces that invite exploration and self-expression.

Her primary focus is Eureka Valley Arts, a joyful, art-filled studio for children to make, play, and feel safe within a close-knit creative community. During the week, that’s where you’ll most often find her—encouraging young artists and helping little hands discover big ideas.

On weekends, she sometimes drifts over to Castro Clay, where she might be found watering plants, sculpting a variety of reptilian creatures, or simply tending to the studio space . With Jonah helping run the studio day-to-day, Kat continues to shape the vision behind the scenes, always guided by a deep belief in the power of art to bring people together.