Write a commentJoin accomplished potter and instructor Linda Knowles in the ancient art of Japanese Raku ceramics. She will assist students in the use of handbuilding and basic throwing methods to create pottery pieces of their choice.
Open to ages 16 and over this class will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:00 AM — 12:00 noon,. July 24, 26, 31, Aug. 2 and 7 at the Art Association of Oswego in their newly renovated pottery studio.
On the last day students will assist in the final outdoor firing to create the metallic and iridescent finishes unique to the art of Raku. They will take their pieces home that day.
This class is limited to the first 8 people who register. A link to registration and more information is located on AAO's web page here -- http://www.oswegoarts.org/education/
What is the Raku method of firing?
In the traditional Japanese process, the fired raku piece is removed from the hot kiln and is allowed to cool in the open air.
A more modern technique is now used. The fired raku piece is removed from the hot kiln and is placed in a container filled with combustible material. The smoke is allowed to penetrate the unglazed surfaces, which then turns satin black. The glazed areas will turn a metallic (usually copper) luster where heavily reduced, white crackle or another glossy color depending on the glaze.
