A New Space for Clay: Khmer Ceramics Centre Launches Cambodia’s First Open-Access Pottery Studio
Siem Reap, Cambodia – February 2025 – Khmer Ceramics Centre, located on River Road near Road 60 in Siem Reap, officially announces the launch of its new dedicated space named “Go Pottery Open Studio”, offering a monthly membership to Siem Reap residents. This fully equipped studio welcomes up to 50 members and is designed for people…
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Siem Reap, Cambodia – February 2025 – Khmer Ceramics Centre, located on River Road near Road 60 in Siem Reap, officially announces the launch of its new dedicated space named “Go Pottery Open Studio”, offering a monthly membership to Siem Reap residents.
This fully equipped studio welcomes up to 50 members and is designed for people of all skill levels who wish to explore ceramics as a creative, social, and well-being activity.
A New Afterwork Ritual: “De-stress, Socialize, Create”
Memberships start at an affordable price of USD 33 per month, making pottery accessible as a regular leisure activity rather than a one-time experience.
The studio’s guiding motto is: “De-stress, socialize, create”, positioning ceramics as more than an art form — it is also a tool for relaxation, focus, and connection. Whether members come alone or with friends, whether they are complete beginners or seasoned artists, the studio offers a welcoming space to unwind and find their sense of peace while sharing a creative moment with others.
Two Membership Options
Open Studio – USD 33/month
- Daily, unlimited access to the studio for self-practice
- A relaxing and social environment for personal projects
- Ideal for people who want to explore independently
Open Studio Plus – USD 55/month
- Daily, unlimited access to the studio for self-practice
- Access to two daily 1-hour guided activities, Monday to Saturday
- Suitable for members wishing to develop their skills with more guidance
What is included in both memberships
- Membership card with unlimited access everyday 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Unlimited locally sourced stoneware clay
- A variety of color glazes
- Full range of equipment: wheels, slab machine, coil extruder, wedging corner, modeling, texturing and glazing tools, personal storage shelves
- Do’s and Don’ts Guide to ceramics
- Studio staff available to help set up workspaces and answer questions
What is not included
- Firing of pieces (USD 6/kg, minimum USD 1 per piece)
- Full-time teacher (this is not a class format)
- Full-time cleaning service (members must clean their own workspace and tools after use)
- Guaranteed results (ceramics requires experimentation and patience)
Voices from GoPottery Open Studio
Serge Rega, Co-Founder
“Making ceramics goes beyond the production of objects — it has been proven to have a deep effect on well-being, much like going to the gym or a yoga retreat.
The repetitive gestures of shaping clay help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety. It also improves focus and resilience, while the sensory experience of touching clay lifts the mood and offers a therapeutic way to express emotions without words.
The feedback from our members, most of whom had never practiced pottery before, is clear: they came out of curiosity and stayed for the lifestyle.”
Morgane Darrasse, Marketing Manager
“Seeing this studio opening in Siem Reap is a dream come true. The original idea was to stand out and offer something that Siem Reap residents could truly benefit from, in a city that mainly lives from, and for, tourism.
I want it to be a place where diversity and exchange can blossom. It is motivating to see how strong the community spirit has been since the early days: some members even spent Christmas Eve together at the studio.
The challenge now is to encourage more Cambodians to take part. I feel pottery is still seen mainly as traditional handicraft rather than as a weekly leisure activity for self-development. I really hope this perception will change in the future and people will see the full potential of this practice.”
Members Testimonials
“Joining the studio was very important to me. It is very special because I truly love pottery.
When I was a child, I always tried to make things and experiment with clay because I love sculpting. Clay feels magical to me — it can become anything.
It has always been in my mind to have a space like this, and now being here feels very good. I am truly grateful.
The place is very nice, with a warm atmosphere. The people are friendly and they share with each other. Everyone is unique!”
Karona
“Best part of my week is heading into the studio to create a little something with my hands.
As a beginner I’ve learnt a lot about working with clay, firing, glazing and have surprised myself with what I’ve created.
The space is calm and enjoyable. The staff are always welcoming, friendly and happy to help. My fellow potters in the open studio are not only inspiring, they’re good to have a chat with.
Do yourself a favour and give it a go you won’t be disappointed!”
Annie
About Khmer Ceramics & Fine Arts Centre
Founded in Siem Reap in 2006, the Khmer Ceramics Centre is a social enterprise dedicated to preserving traditional Khmer ceramic heritage while providing stable employment and professional training to artisans, most of whom are mute and hearing impaired.
The centre promotes inclusive craftsmanship and shares Cambodian ceramic culture with both local and international audiences.
Expansion and International Development
This year, the centre is celebrating its 20th anniversary and decided to dream big.
“Besides the opening of Go Pottery Open Studio, which we would like to replicate in Phnom Penh in the future, we are taking another step in our international development and will be present at the Food and Hospitality Asia (FHA) fair in Singapore in April, the first of a long series!” says Serge, Co-Founder.
