Lindsey McIntosh on Building Community Through the Clay Center

I talk with Lindsey McIntosh about her work with the Friends of Clay, a volunteer group that supports the Clay Center in Charleston. We’re standing in the middle of the Clay Center’s auditorium while she explains how the space serves as both a museum and a hands-on interactive learning center for children and adults. There are rotating exhibits, concerts, Broadway shows, and STEM-focused educational programs. Upstairs is the Juliet Art Museum, and downstairs are interactive exhibits like Water Works and a small model town where kids can explore Charleston through play.

Lindsey tells me that the Clay Center isn’t just for kids. They host concerts, adult-only events, and special evenings like Night at the Museum where adults get access to the interactive exhibits. One of their biggest events is Carnival, an annual fundraiser organized by Friends of Clay. It brings the community together for a night of food, drinks, and access to almost the entire Clay Center. Friends of Clay also helps organize events and raise money to support STEAM education—science, technology, engineering, art, and math—for schools across the region.

She explains that being part of Friends of Clay comes with perks. Members get tickets to the Emerging Artist Series, early access to Broadway shows, and opportunities to help produce events. Membership is based on donation levels, and some people may already qualify without realizing it. Monthly membership options are available starting at $7.50 a month for “Clay for Two,” which provides access to the museum and eligibility for Friends of Clay benefits.

We talk about the importance of art in Charleston and how it connects to the community. Lindsey says Charleston values local businesses, artists, and experiences. Art Walks are held in the warmer months, and while the Clay Center is a bit off the beaten path, it plays a key role in keeping the arts scene vibrant and accessible. She emphasizes how the center blends art and science to create meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities for kids through daily field trips and the traveling “Clay to Go” program.

As we wrap up, Lindsey tells me the easiest way to learn more is to Google the Clay Center or Friends of Clay. The website has everything needed to sign up, check benefits, and see if you already qualify for membership based on recent donations. Monthly payment plans make it easy to get involved and support local education and the arts.

This conversation shows how the Clay Center and the Friends of Clay are working to bring people together through creativity, education, and community events.