Studio Inspires More Than Just Pottery

Not so evident to those motorists zipping along Franklin Avenue is the charming, Once Upon A Dish, tucked snuggly into the row of shops just south of Seventh Street. The whimsical pottery studio that has been a fixture in Garden City for more than 12 years is recently owned and operated by Sophia Chrissafis Muhr.

Muhr's history with the studio began as a frequent customer of "Ladies Night," held Thursdays. Shortly afterward, she joined as an employee. She had worked for the studio for more than seven years before being offered the chance to take it over as her own. Muhr said, "[I have] no formal art training; this, it's a passion, a hobby."

One weekly regular, Nancy Knapp of Huntington, said, "This place is the cheapest therapy on Long Island; you walk out feeling like all of your worries are gone, be with your friends and meet new people, just have a great time."

"When I went to paint pottery years ago, I don't remember it being things that I actually use everyday; I was making the Christmas tree and the bank and the dolls," said another regular customer, Linda Torretta of East Meadow. "Now I am making things that I use everyday." She finished designing and painting salt and pepper shakers to match a set of dishes that her mother recently purchased from a department store and is now painting a coordinating pasta tray.

Two regular weekly events are hosted year round, "Ladies Night" Thursdays and "Adult Night" Fridays, each from 6 to 9 p.m. Attendance varies each week, but reservations are necessary. Some weeks there may be two people quietly working on projects and other weeks the events draw standing-room-only crowds. Some patrons take advantage of the bring-your-own-bottle suggestion, uncorking a bottle of Merlot while painting their pottery and talking with friends. Other guests have dinner delivered, like a pizza or salad from Garden City Pizza or sushi rolls from the Japanese restaurant, Sushi Ya, both just steps away from the pottery studio.

While the studio is a very cozy space with minimal room, the walls are lined with examples of inspiring art. The drying kiln is set off in one corner of the studio and other shelves are filled with raw pieces of pottery, ready to be chosen and brought to life by paints, stencils, stamps and more. The studio provides a rainbow of colors to choose from and all the tools necessary to complete a project. The staff nurtures the creativity of the beginner as easily as the expert, giving gentle step-by-step instruction and suggestion.

In addition to the regular weekly events, holiday and seasonal themed projects are planned for pottery designers of all ages. Once Upon A Dish frequently hosts scouting troops, birthday parties, bridal and baby showers and even office parties.

"The children, seeing their faces when they come in here; that's the best part," said Muhr.

A wide range of services are offered. Pre-painted and custom painted pieces are available. Additional crafting classes are in session throughout the year. In February, the studio will be teaching knitting to beginners, providing basic instruction on how to knit a scarf. There will be a jewelry making class to create knotted friendship bracelets and also a couple of paper Mache crafts.

The studio, located at 659 Franklin Avenue (516-742-6030) is open seven days a week.