Our Team
Tayte Kelly
Tayte Kelly is the founder and owner of The Pottery Den, a community pottery studio inspired by her mom’s love for pottery and her own passion for bringing people together. Tayte has always been drawn to the creativity and connection that come from sharing experiences—whether it’s gathering around a dinner table or a pottery wheel.
With The Pottery Den, she’s created a space where people of all skill levels can slow down, get creative, and connect through the simple joy of making something by hand.
Founder/Owner
Lauren Woods
Lauren Woods was born and raised in the Mad River Valley area of Vermont, where she began working with clay in High School and has continued to this day. Lauren has worked in various community studios, non-profit spaces and currently teaches through multiple locations in the Gallatin Valley, creates her own work in her private studio, and offers private lessons, workshops and commercial parties in Bozeman Montana where she currently lives. Lauren works with all ages, 4 and up, if you are curious she will meet you where you are at! Lauren loves to work with clay for fun and professionally, she also enjoys trail running, reading in the sun with her dog, and a good meal shared with friends. Lauren is also a counseling Astrologer, so if you are curious there, don't be shy to share your birthday with her!
Teacher/Tech Manager
Thomas Robinson
Thomas is originally from Bainbridge Island, Washington and moved to Bozeman in 2023 where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Studio Arts with a focus in ceramics at Montana State University. Ever since setting up his first studio in his bedroom during the Covid pandemic, he has fallen in love with clay and the community that it fosters and hasn’t looked back. Thomas enjoys teaching and beyond the Den, shares his passion for ceramics through his roles as president of the MSU Ceramics Guild and an ambassador of the MSU College of Arts and Architecture. He’s always excited to connect with people of all backgrounds and experiences through clay and creativity.
Teacher/Studio Supervisor
Jackson Mansi
Originally from Scituate, Massachusetts, Jackson moved to Bozeman, Montana in 2018 to attend Montana State University and quickly fell in love with the outdoor lifestyle the region offers. Whether it's fishing, snowboarding, hunting, or just spending time outside with his dog, he is the happiest outdoors—especially if he is on a boat.
Jackson’s journey in ceramics began with a three-year apprenticeship under renowned artist Steven Branfman, where he developed a strong foundation in traditional techniques with a particular focus on Raku firing. Since then, he has continued honing his craft, spending most of his creative time at the wheel. Jackson’s work reflects both his roots in the coastal Northeast and his deep connection to the rugged landscapes of the Mountain West.
Teacher/Studio Supervisor