Raku Pottery Workshop

164 S Military Highway,Norfolk VA 23502

11 December, 2021

Description

Join instructor Ray Wood as he leads us through the Raku process and explains the intricacies of this fun alternative firing technique. We will do the traditional American Raku process. Participants should bring 3 bisqued pieces no larger than 10” tall by 6” wide for the firing, and no smaller than 2"x 2". We will fire more pieces if time and material allow. Glazes will be provided. Various bisque pieces will be available for purchase if needed. Please keep in mind: All participants will be required to sign a release before participating in firing. Participants must be over 18, or accompanied by a paid adult. Bisque temperature should preferably be between pyrometric cone 010 and 06. Any clay may be used, but keep in mind that clay specifically formulated for raku firing has a better chance of surviving the thermal shock. We make no guarantees as to the success or survival of pieces through the process as no processes in the ceramic arts are foolproof. Fire pieces at your own risk. Flat pieces like plates and wide bowls can be problematic and for purposes of the workshop are discouraged. Please be aware that raku firing does not produce work suitable for food service and vessels may be too porous to hold liquid. Please wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. About Ray: Ray has been making pottery for 17 years. He makes a mixture of both functional and decorative pottery. He learned Raku from some of the potters who wrote the books on the technique. He has been making and firing raku kilns most of the 17 years and employs both traditional and alternative firing techniques. Ray lives on the Eastern Shore and shows his pottery locally.