RAKU POTTERY
RAKU is a process in which pottery is removed from the kiln at bright red heat and subjected to post-firing reduction (or smoking) by being placed in containers of combustible materials, blackening raw clay and causing crazing in the glaze surface.
Annually, Richmond Potters Club members gather at a group RAKU firing event at Shadbolt Centre of Arts in Burnaby. It is a collaborative and fun event where members contribute their time, network, and have the opportunity to fire their pottery using the raku or horsehair method. The joy of sharing results with fellow members and seeing the unexpected outcome of some of the pieces are just some of the reasons why RAKU firing is consistently a popular event amongst members.
Annually, Richmond Potters Club members gather at a group RAKU firing event at Shadbolt Centre of Arts in Burnaby. It is a collaborative and fun event where members contribute their time, network, and have the opportunity to fire their pottery using the raku or horsehair method. The joy of sharing results with fellow members and seeing the unexpected outcome of some of the pieces are just some of the reasons why RAKU firing is consistently a popular event amongst members.
1. raku pottery pieces are loaded in to the kiln
2. hot raku pottery pieces are placed onto a sand and sawdust area
3. shredded paper, sawdust and other combustible materials are placed on top of the hot pottery pieces
4. a lid is placed on top of the pottery pieces for some time to allow the pieces to react and fire
5. hot pottery pieces are cooled down with cold mist and water, debris and char is scrubbed off
6. the result is raku pottery that is both delicate and beautiful
2. hot raku pottery pieces are placed onto a sand and sawdust area
3. shredded paper, sawdust and other combustible materials are placed on top of the hot pottery pieces
4. a lid is placed on top of the pottery pieces for some time to allow the pieces to react and fire
5. hot pottery pieces are cooled down with cold mist and water, debris and char is scrubbed off
6. the result is raku pottery that is both delicate and beautiful
