Raku Workshop

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In this workshop, participants ages 18 and up will attend three-hour work sessions to create clay objects using the Raku firing technique. Initially, students will create works then are then dried, bisque-fired, and then glazed. The works are then fired using the ancient Japanese ceramics technique to create a unique finish. The Raku technique dates back to the 16th century, and pieces are traditionally crafted by hand and not thrown on a potter's wheel.

With the Raku technique, glazed ceramics are taken from the kiln while they are still glowing red hot and then placed in a material, such as sawdust or newspaper, that catches fire from the heat of the ceramic item. This starves the piece of oxygen, which creates a myriad of colors within the glaze. Without a glaze, the clay loses oxygen, resulting in some areas having a matte black coloring.

Raku creates a unique design every time, so there is less control over the outcome.

Cost is $200 per participant and includes all materials and firings.