Space Station Museum, 476 Ignacio Blvd, Novato, CA 94949, US

This working studio and gallery was founded more than forty years ago by professional potters who allowed their friends and neighbors interested in pottery to use their tools, which now include sixteen wheels and ten kilns. When those potters left, the friends who had been using the facilities could not bear to let the place go, so pooled their money and bought the business. Shares are still up for sale, but aspiring potters and those who love them have several options for getting involved, including daily and monthly memberships, purchasing fire services on an as-needed basis, taking classes, hiring the place for a private party, or just coming in and shopping for clay or the many beautiful finished pieces on display created by local artists.