our HISTORY

1969

Clay Dimensions founded in Normal Heights by ceramics teacher Rhoda Lopez to house UCSD Extension classes and accommodate studio Associates as well. Holds bi-annual sales of student and associates’ work.

1983

Ms. Lopez retires. The seven studio associates assume management and change name to Clay Associates (CA). Associates Eric Woods and Jerry Thiebolt become studio managers and teachers. CA receives non-profit status.

1988/98

Clay Associates participates in the annual Kidzart Festival in Balboa Park, donating volunteer time, expertise and supplies.

1989

Clay Associates receives federal non-profit (501(c)3) status.

1992

Clay Associates forms a 14-member Board of Directors who revise and focus organization’s strategic plan.

1993

Clay Associates moves to a larger space at 3667 Adams Ave, San Diego, 92116 and begins extensive renovations to the building.

1996

CA collaborates with the Ilan-Lael Foundation to create decorative tiles for the Jardin de Los Niño’s preschool in Tijuana, Mexico. Donation and installation of students’ and associates’ tiles.

1997/98

Participation in Normal Heights Community Association for contribution to the community.

1998

Clay Associates receives an award from the Normal Heights Community Association for “Most Attractive Storefront,” a result of landscaping and renovations completed.

Re-institution of the bi-annual student and associate sales.

1999

Clay Associates purchase the property at 3676 Adams Avenue to enable expansion and growth of the organization, include more classes, and expand the curriculum. The Board of Directors plans for a major capital campaign with the goal of project completion by January 2003.

2005-18

Clay Associates participates in “Art Around Adams,” contributing to the trolley and advertising.

2012

ClayAssociatesSanDiego.com website created.

2014

New fence erected on the east side of the main studio.

2015

CA group show at the new Mission Valley library.

2016

CA creates curriculum and classes for students at High Tech High.

2020

A section of the small cottage is converted to an office and photo studio.

2021

Anna Cosimini takes on responsibility of creating and partnering an intern program with SDSU. Intern program successfully completed.