RAKU
Raku Nights
Typically a weekend day, at least quarterly for a three-hour session
$125/person (16 and older)
Come and experience the excitement of raku firing, an ancient pottery technique that originated in Japan centuries ago known for its unpredictability and unique results. It is often characterized by its crackled glaze and vibrant colors, making it a sought-after art form for many collectors and enthusiasts. Because Raku firing is unpredictable, you’re guaranteed to get a unique design every time you go through this process.
It is also much faster than normal firing. Normal firing techniques can take up to 24 hours for the full design whereas Raku firing is only 1-2 hours. If you’re a potter, Raku firing is a great way to test new styles and techniques. It’s always exciting to see how the pieces will turn out.
You can pick up to 2 pieces to glaze and we will fire them that evening for you to take home. All materials included. This weekend experience will last approximately 3 hrs. And if you have your own pieces you’d like to bring, you may also do so, but up to 2 pieces per session so everyone has a chance to fire.
The process of raku firing involves removing the pieces from the kiln while they are still glowing hot and placing them in a chamber with combustible materials like sawdust or charcoal, or other organic matter, so that when the matter burns, it creates an oxygen-deprived environment. This rapid cooling process and lack of oxygen results in the crackled glaze and unique color patterns that are typical of Raku pottery. Raku firing without the glaze means the oxygen is extracted from the clay. This leaves a matte-black finish in some areas.
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