Digs Staff

  • Fawn Penn | they/them

    Co-Founder | Facilities Manager
    fawnpenn.com

  • Zoe Minzenberger | she/they

    Co-Founder | Program Coordinator
    zoeminzceramics.com

  • Delia Pelli-Walbert | she/her

    Studio Manager
    deliapw.com

  • Mira Simonton-Chao | they/them

    Studio Tech
    mirasimontonchao.com

  • Van Payne | she/her

    Arts Administrator
    thevanpayne.com

  • Isaiah Lee | he/him

    Chicago Critique Group Facilitator
    @isaiahleeart

  • Grace Hart | she/her

    Studio Monitor

  • Maria Schuster | she/her

    Studio Monitor

  • "I've been at The Digs since October 2024, and in that time I have learned an *incredible* amount of techniques. The best thing about ceramics for me is that I am always learning, and that there's a trick to any method. I'm so thankful that people at The Digs also share this hunger for learning and willingness to help each other. It's a very nurturing community :)"

    —Rana Hawais (Pay-to-Clay Member)

  • "I love The Digs! It's been really great having a studio so close to home. Plus the energy is great here from the windows to the plants, people, and programming. There's such a good range of experiences — from day pass to professional — and everyone is open in sharing experiences and expertise and inspiration. "

    —Laura Botham (Resident Member)

  • I took a private pottery class with Fawn, who was amazing! So patient and encouraging. The space is beautiful and spacious, and as a first-timer, I felt completely comfortable. I can’t wait to take another class!

    Ariana Magana (student)

  • I’ve been a member at The Digs for over two years and participated in several classes and workshops along the way. I cannot recommend this studio and community enough for ceramic artists looking to grow in their practice! The space is beautiful and fosters collaboration between the dozens of talented artists who call this studio home. The owners possess so much expertise and are available to the community. I’ve learned from my teachers, peers, and friends here—AND they’re pet friendly. What more could you ask for?

    Betsy Broaddus

  • cannot speak more highly of The Digs Chicago. The community Fawn and Zoe created is unlike any other. At The Digs, I've made incredible friends and grown creatively. Within a year, I went from barely being able to throw a mug to creating an entire dinnerware set. Take a class!! Join The Digs!!

    Grace Achepohl