4-Week Raku Intensive: Form & Fire

This fast-paced, advanced workshop is crafted specifically for experienced clay artists eager to delve into the dramatic world of Raku. If you’re comfortable and proficient with either the pottery wheel or various handbuilding techniques, prepare for a rapid, rewarding transformation of your work.

The initial three weeks are dedicated to intensive creation and refinement. You’ll focus on designing and constructing forms specifically engineered to withstand the extreme thermal shock and embrace the unique reduction effects of Raku. We’ll explore robust construction methods, efficient drying practices, and surface considerations crucial for successful Raku outcomes. Our goal during this phase is to empower you to quickly produce high-quality pieces ready for their fiery destiny.

The course culminates in an exhilarating, full-day Raku firing session. This hands-on experience will guide you through the art and science of applying specialized Raku glazes—from crackle and luster to matte and copper effects. You’ll then participate directly in the thrilling process of pulling glowing hot pieces from the kiln and plunging them into reduction chambers. Witness firsthand the smoky alchemy as your creations burst into spectacular metallic sheens, intricate crackles, and vibrant, unpredictable colors.

Get ready to push your boundaries, embrace spontaneity, and leave with truly unique, fiery masterpieces that showcase a rapid and rewarding evolution in your ceramic artistry!”

Who This Class Is For:

• Potters with prior experience with either wheel throwing or hand-building techniques.

What to Bring:

• Wear old clothes: Pottery can get messy!
• Old towel
• Closed-toe shoes: For safety in the studio.
• A positive attitude: Be ready to learn and have fun!

Included in the course fee: 16 hours of studio time, a 25 lb bag of clay and access to all necessary studio tools and glazes.