clayhouse
The Ask
I tasked myself with creating a welcoming community that is passion driven and could aid myself, as well as other in making major networking opportunities.
THE PROCESS
I began using these skills to start growing ClayHouse from my backyard to multiple cities. By networking with my friends who were already in the music scene, I grew my contacts list which allowed me to diversify the genres at my shows. Each show began being better organized than the last as I began to understand the gears needed to make a live show work so I hired photographers, sound techs, lighting and security. This kickstarted rapid growth which led me to looking for venues. Through forming contracts and negotiation I began hosting shows at multiple venues and eventually threw my first day festival in Monroe Park, Richmond VA.
ORGANIZATIONAL
Booked bands, organized performance times, hired security & soundtechs.
NETWORKING
Secured “regulars”. These being out of state bands with good crow pull that will use ClayHouse when passing through Richmond
NEGOTIATION
Made deals with local venues to secure contracts ensuring ClayHouse and ClayHouse artist’s are protected and compensated.
COLLABORATION
Partnering with multiple different artists, venues, and organizations to curate fundraiser events for those in need.
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Used knowledge on adobe platforms to create flyers for events. Growing that skill immensely over time.
BUDGETTING
Ensuring that money is spent properly on promotion, staff, and concessions to ensure bands get compensated properly.
SKills USed
The OUTCOME
What started as just a few friends an I playing music in my backyard has become so much more. As a way to pursue my love for music & art- I saw an opportunity to make it something bigger. As of 2025 ClayHouse works with multiple venues on the east coast and has raised over $3k in fundraisers. It’s become a show curation and promotion platform for touring bands and local artists but more importantly, by hosting all genres of sound, It’s become a safe place for anyone who enjoys music. Below are some moments captured from these events, as well as some of the flyers I’ve made over the years.
"DESPAIR WRAPPED IN A BOW" ClayHouse charity event. Commonwealth Times news article linked to image.
ClayFest '24 at Monroe Park, Richmond VA. Included food trucks, local art vendors, and live music.
Backyard show that led ClayHouse to become what it is now.
Local Richmond artist selling their work at ClayFest. (@sirdimpleton on instagram)
