About Us
From the first call I made to Bellyfire with tons of questions all the way to the completion of my event, David and his entire staff were so kind, professional, and informative.
Jill Hudson, Google Review
Our Story
Nestled in the heart of Baton Rouge, BellyFire provides unique and enjoyable experiences for folks of all ages and skill levels, offering a haven for artistic expression and social gatherings. Our vision is to create a space that foster creativity and connection. Our passionate team of artists strive to make every visit fun and memorable. We pride ourselves on variety and accessibility, with an extensive collection of bisqueware ranging from whimsical children's items to elegant dinnerware, complemented by over 40 vibrant colors to spark endless creative possibilities.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, organizing a group event, or enjoying a spontaneous outing, our studio is the perfect space. At BellyFire, art is for everyone—seasoned artists and first-timers alike can rely on our friendly staff for guidance and encouragement. Join us to unleash your imagination, embrace your individuality, and create masterpieces while making lasting memories. We can’t wait to see what you’ll create!
Creation Over Consumption
Today, there is no shortage of "recreation". From social media to streaming, our brains are fed a slow-drip dopamine diet. We have settled for a cheapened recreation. As humans, we long for something deeper; something real. Pottery is that! It helps you to process emotions, embrace ambiguity, and self-discover. It is truly rewarding and fulfilling!
Community
Like anything good, it all comes down to the people. The people at BellyFire make us special. Whether you are a fledgling potter dipping your toes in, or a ceramics wizard, you will be met with patience, kindness, and all the tools and support needed to succeed AND have fun.
Fun
Our mission is to provide a safe, fun, and creative environment for people of all skill levels to experience the timeless art of pottery. We're here to help you get inspired and create.
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FAQs
If it's your first time at BellyFire and you don't have ceramics experience, we require taking a technique series first. However, if you have prior experience, you're welcome to do open studio. Let our staff know it's your first time, and they'll be happy to assist you in booking a class. Feel free to email or call us for more information.
Yes, we do! We accept low fire outside pieces for firing. Half kilns cost $35, and full kilns cost $55.
With the exception of a la carte firings, We only allow clay purchased at BellyFire to be painted and fired in our studio. We offer clay available for purchase at the studio.
If you have prior wheel experience or have taken a technique series, you are welcome to come in and use our studio a la carte.
Pricing: $25/hr + $3/lb of clay + $5/piece for 2x firings and glazing
Expect to get messy! We provide aprons, but wear comfortable, washable clothing and closed-toed shoes. We recommend tying back long hair and removing hand and wrist jewelry.
Unfortunately, we don't offer refunds or instructor-led makeup classes due to class size limitations. However, you can make up one missed class per four-week session with two hours of studio time.
We provide all necessary tools, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.
Only clay purchased at BellyFire can be used and fired in our studio, unless authorized by our managers. This ensures proper firing and glazing compatibility.
Yes! We have so many different options. We offer private classes for 1-35 people.
Unfortunately, no. For safety reasons, pets aren't allowed inside the studio unless they are legal service animals. Outdoor seating is available for pet owners.
Yes, pottery made with our clays and glazes is microwave, dishwasher, and food safe.
Please allow drying and firing time. Pieces are ready for pick up 10 days after completion, and will be held until the next day of the following month from the point at which the piece was made/painted.
Glaze and firing fees are included in the cost of bisqueware pieces. For pieces made in classes, there's a $5 materials fee per piece if you wish to glaze and have us clear coat and refire.
Yes, food and drinks are allowed. However, greasy food is not recommended as it can interfere with the kiln glaze and cause the glaze to not adhere to the piece. Our classes and studio are BYOB, except for family classes.
Our Team
Founder
David Rollins
Hi! My name is David and I am an instructor and the owner of BellyFire! I've been throwing on the wheel for over 10 years and have taught for over four. I love to throw and trim detailed pieces of pottery, I like to play with scale (both large and small), and I enjoy making abstract stuff from my dreams! My favorite pieces to make are large vessels and smokeware.
Back of House Manager/Instructor
Ella King
Hi I’m Ella! I’ve been working at Bellyfire since we opened in 2023, and my favorite classes to teach are our technique workshops! When you take a lesson with me, you can expect a chill environment with lots of laughs! For our technique classes, you can expect an in depth look into all aspects of pottery. I love teaching because of all the people I meet, and I’ve taught over 1000 people how to throw!
Instructor
Bailey Hernandez
Hello! My name is Bailey, I am a senior ceramics and sculpture major at LSU and I’ve been wheel throwing for two years! I love playing with clay because I can explore texture and scale in a playful and dynamic way.
I enjoy introducing people to clay through my lessons because it can be a creative but challenging outlet for many! I encourage my students to explore any and all ideas while supporting them through the process to ensure they go home with a piece they love and learned from.
Instructor
Cole Clark
Hey, I'm Cole! I am a BFA Studio Arts major at LSU concentrating in ceramics. My work recently involves lots of coil building and surrealist sculpting as well a continued interest in tea wares thrown on the wheel.
When taking a class with me, you can expect an encouraging instructor who will talk you through each step individually as you come across personal road blocks. I love to dive into the reasons why something may have gone wrong so you can better understand the process for the future!
General Manager (Front of House)
Angel Wright
Hey I'm Angel. I'm still working on my bio!
Instructor
Sierra Beverly
Hi, I’m Sierra! I’m in my senior semester at lsu for ceramics and sculpture and I’ve been wheel throwing for about two years now. I love working with clay because of its versatility, it allows me to bring my ideas to life! When taking a class with me, you can expect a calm and encouraging environment where we can bring your ideas to life too!
Front of House
Sarah Lindrew
Hi I’m Sarah, I’m an art major at LSU and I currently work in front of house. I love art because I love creating and finding expression in my works and others. Most of my current work is in printmaking but working at Bellyfire has given me the opportunity and tools to pursue ceramics as well. While I’m still learning, I’m excited to be surrounded by other creatives who are so willing and able to help me out in this journey!
Instructor
Maddie Barr
I’m Maddie, and I’m graduating from LSU with a BFA in Painting and Drawing. I love working with clay too because it allows me to just relax and create things that inspire me. Sculpture and pottery are almost magical to me because you get to make something tangible that started from just an idea. I’d love to help others make their ideas come to life and have fun while we do it!
Instructor
Paisley Rooney
Hey I'm Paisley. I'm still working on my bio!
Instructor
Field Baber
Hi, I'm Field! I'm from Shreveport, Louisiana. I study Biology-Premed at LSU. I've been studying pottery for 13 years, and have been a studio potter for 8. I have produced both dinnerware and fine-art. My work has actually been shown in the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum! When coming in for a class with me, you will get to experience a fun and lighthearted atmosphere where your creative ideas will come to life.
Our Team
Some of Our Happy Customers
