Raku
is a traditional Japanese firing process dating back to the beginning
of the 16th century. Traditionally this technique was used to produce
tea bowls for the tea ceremony. The characteristics of the pieces
at that time were simple and had no decoration. Since then, Raku
has evolved to become a popular form of ceramic art.
This firing
technique involves a very rapid heating and cooling of the pieces.
Each piece is first bisque fired to prepare it for glazing. The
glazed or unglazed pieces are then placed in a kiln and fired to
a temperature of 1500-1800 degrees Farenheit (or until the glazes
melt). While the glaze is still molten and glowing hot the pieces
are removed from the kiln with tongs and placed into a container
full of combustible materials (like newspaper, straw, leaves or
sawdust). After igniting, a lid is placed on the container starving
the oxygen from the atmosphere and reducing the glazes to these
dramatic metallic or crackle finishes. The process requires total
involvement and an intimate understanding of the materials, transforming
the pottery into sensual and dramatic forms of art.
Even though
I prefer the look and feel of Naked Clay or unglazed
pieces, occasionally I do enjoy glazing for Raku firings. I love
the interaction with the glowing hot pieces as they're pulled from
the kiln and the change the glazes go through after the reduction
firing. The pieces I make for Raku firing tend to be fun pieces
like yard art, rattles or wall hangings. I especially love making
all sorts of fish. During the firing process the glazes change so
drastically they bring the fish to life! To link to my fish gallery,
click here.
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2014 Joann Cassady Pottery. All Rights Reserved. Web Design by Joann
Cassady.
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