Learn the ancient art of Raku, a firing technique like non-other used to develop vivid colors and metallic sheens. Trust us when we say that this is by far one of the most exciting and dramatic firing techniques, guaranteed to yield some spectacular results.
What is Raku Firing?
During a Raku Firing, vessels are rapidly heated in a gas kiln to 1000°C, at which point the incandescent vessels are removed from the kiln and are immediately buried into a bin of combustible materials, including sawdust and shredded paper.
Once the materials ignite, the bins are closed, which produces an intense reduction atmosphere, transforming the oxide-rich glazes to pure metal.
What exactly does this mean? Not to worry, we will explain it all in detail during the first half of the workshop.
What will I learn?
This full-day, five-hour workshop will be taught by local ceramic artist, Shirley Battrick, who studied the American style of Raku in the USA under one of the early practitioners of this modern version.
Shirley will begin the workshop with a background on raku and raku firing. She will then demonstrate how to glaze your vessels using special raku glazes that she has developed over the years.
Once the firing process begins, you'll have the chance to only learn, but actively participate - for example, slap on the big ol' welding gloves and learn how to handle the reduction chamber!
Preparing for the Raku Firing
A) Vessels
First and foremost, you will need to make your vessels! We highly suggest using the following clay bodies:
◦ Clayworks LGH
◦ Walkers Special Stoneware
◦ Feeneys BRT or HB
Please note, other clay bodies have not been tested and may crack due to the extreme thermal shock of the firing process.
Each participant will have the opportunity to fire 3-4 vessels. Vessels can be either wheel-thrown or hand-built, and must be no larger than a grapefruit (max width 10cm, max height 20cm).
Lastly, vessels must be bisque fired to 1000°C prior to the workshop. If you do not have a kiln, vessels can be bisque fired at Stone Studio for $8/kilo. Please contact Jennifer here to arrange firing.
B) Lunch
Please note, this is a full-day, five-hour workshop. Morning tea will be provided (assortment of fruit and baked goods, tea & coffee), but please be sure to pack a lunch.
C) Clothing
All participants must wear enclosed shoes, long sleeves, and long pants. Natural fibers only, please. No synthetics or poly-cotton blends. Clothing must be tight-fitting (no flowing shirts, and absolutely no dresses). Long hair must be tied back. During winter, please be sure to dress warmly.
What do I need to bring?
◦ 3-4 grapefruit sized pieces that have been bisque fired to 1000°C (max width 10cm, max height 20cm)
◦ A light lunch (morning tea will be provided)
◦ Water bottle
◦ Sunscreen
Additional Information
Please note, this workshop is WEATHER DEPENDANT. If there is a chance of rain, or if the winds are too strong, the workshop will be postponed. We will notify you the day before the workshop if the weather is deemed unsuitable for firing.
The Raku Firing will take place in the hills of Duranbah, near Tropical Fruit World, at the beautiful home studio of local ceramic artist, Jennifer Redmond of Yucca Stone Ceramics. Address to be provided.
