In this special workshop, students will create objects using hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques before applying special Raku glazes. In the last class, students will participate in the final firing of their objects. This method of firing is so immediate that you will be able to take your creations home at the end of the session.

Dates: September 8, 15, 22, 1 – 4 pm
Firing: September 29, 10 am – 4 pm

• 4 sessions
• Beginner to advanced
• Ages 18+
• Earthenware clay
• Hand building and wheel throwing
• Special Raku glazes

Raku is a pottery technique that has its origins in 16^th-century Japan. The Raku technique, like other pottery techniques, primarily revolves around its firing. Wares are treated to a ‘post firing reduction’ phase. The wares are put into a container with combustible material such as sawdust and leaves and allowed to smoke for a predetermined length of time. The carbonaceous atmosphere reacts and affects the glazes and clay, and imparts unique effects and surfaces to the wares. Some of these effects are metallic and crackled glazes surfaces. When the wares have cooled, they are washed with an abrasive cleaner to remove all residues of soot and ash.

There is a firing maximum of three pieces per participant. This is due to the size of the kiln. The maximum dimension of an object is 30 cm x 10 cm. Two-dimensional pieces, such as plates and masks, cannot be fired.

Gardiner Friends, please log in to access your discount.

Please note: Gardiner Friends may only purchase adult clay classes at the discounted rate for membership card holders.

This workshop is non-transferable and non-refundable.