Today we’d like to introduce you to Holly Bozaich.
Hi Holly, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I attended NIACC, a community college in Mason City, Iowa, where I had my first experience with pottery. Later, I moved to Cedar Falls to attend the University of Northern Iowa, and eventually relocated to Chicago in 1995. There, I completed my degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Art at North Park University.
I’ve worked with kids ever since graduating high school—teaching art camps and classes, supporting students with special needs of all ages and abilities, and eventually becoming a first-grade teacher in North Chicago.
In 2014, my husband Robert and I moved our family—our two boys, Mason and Maddox—to Prior Lake. I worked as a substitute teacher for PLSAS until recently, when I decided to follow my passion for both art and teaching by creating my dream business: Pottery By Holly. I now offer pottery classes for all ages.
After moving into our current home in 2019, I saw the potential for transforming part of our space into a welcoming home studio. Today, I host classes ranging from small groups to larger gatherings of up to 12 people. Birthday parties are always a big hit, and our “Clay & Cocktails” ladies nights and popular date nights offer a fun and creative experience for adults.
Because the studio is in my home, I can offer flexible scheduling that fits the needs of busy families and individuals. Whether you’re hand-building a project at the table or trying your hand at the pottery wheel, once you experience the joy of playing with clay—it’s hard not to come back for more!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When we first moved to Minnesota from Illinois, my niece and I opened a vibrant art studio in Apple Valley called Syd’s Art Haus. We offered a variety of art mediums, giving the community a space to come in and get creative. Our six pottery wheels were especially popular and quickly became a highlight of the studio.
As Sydney’s interests shifted over time, the studio eventually closed. While that chapter ended, it led me to a new and exciting opportunity.
Reopening my studio out of my home and focusing solely on pottery has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. It allows me to offer a more specialized experience while maintaining the flexibility I need for both my customers and my family.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Pottery By Holly is a cozy, welcoming studio where people of all ages can come in and create with clay—no prior pottery experience needed. It’s an intimate space designed for learning, exploring different clay techniques, and making one-of-a-kind projects.
The studio is perfect for a wide variety of events, including birthday parties, date nights, ladies’ nights, and team-building experiences. Whether you’re hand-building or trying the pottery wheel for the first time, the environment is relaxed, supportive, and fun.
What sets Pottery By Holly apart is the flexibility and ease of the creative process. I encourage everyone to make something that feels personal and meaningful—there’s no pressure, just play! What I’m most proud of is the energy the studio brings to every session. In the three years since reopening, I’ve made so many meaningful connections and lasting friendships through this space.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
My journey from being an elementary school teacher to owning my own pottery studio transitioned smoother than ever.
The patience, clarity, and adaptability that I developed in the classroom is just as essential when teaching adults and kids in the studio.
Whether explaining clay techniques to beginners or managing client expectations for custom classes, my teaching background has given me strong communication skills—vital for running a successful studio.
My studio allows for exploration, play, and the therapeutic aspects of clay.
I love to encourage students of all ages to enjoy the process, not just the result.
Art doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
Pottery teaches resilience—things break, crack, flop, and that’s okay.
Adults need creative outlets just as much as kids do.
My studio is more than just a place to make pottery—it’s a space for people to unwind, laugh, and create memories.
Whether it’s a child proudly holding their first clay mug or a couple laughing at a wobbly vase on date night, they’ve learned:
These little wins mean everything.
Art changes people, even in just 90 minutes.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://potterybyholly.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pottery_by_holly?igsh=NWJyeHkzbzRwOWQy&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PotterybyHollyPriorLake
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/pottery-by-holly-prior-lake
