Raku

The clay piece is first fired in an electric kiln, to become ceramic bisque. After it is glazed, it goes into a gas kiln outdoors, and fired a second time until the glaze melts. The piece is carefully removed from the kiln with tongs at 1800º F.  This process requires protective gear, such as fire-proof gloves and a mask. The piece is then placed into a container filled with sawdust and newspaper, where it bursts into flames. The thermal shock then cracks the glaze, and so the smoke can penetrate inside the cracks. Finally, it is then rinsed with cold water, and scrubbed to reveal the smoked crackle glaze pattern.

I am drawn to the raku firing process because I love the art of imperfection, with each firing results in a unique pattern and finish to each piece.