Introduction to Raku

Tutor: Claude Frere-Smith

Lunch: Price includes a hearty lunch.

Level:
All Levels

Typically for a max of 8 people.

Full Day

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Join ceramics tutor Claude Frere-Smith on this exciting and occasionally fast-moving (!) workshop to create stunning pots using the ancient and dramatic technique of raku firing.

Raku is a really amazing process, developed in Japan in the 16th century, that includes firing pots outside in an ‘open’ kiln to create unique patterns and designs on them. The red-hot pots are transferred from the kiln to reduction buckets where they are smoked and the glazes transformed as the oxygen is consumed, developing the characteristic but unpredictable Raku crackles and lusters. Every piece will be totally unique!

Using ready-made bisque-fired pots by Claude, you will be taught some basic decorating and glazing techniques, which you will then put to use using an array of colours, crackle or iridescent glazes to create your desired effects. You will then watch the pots being taken out of the red hot kiln and put into bins to be smoked. Next comes the magic as you wash and polish the pots to reveal the final look of your pot! You will get to repeat this process three times during the day and Claude will also take you through simple-hand-building techniques.

Please Note this workshop takes place inside and outside, with the firing taking place outside so please dress for the weather. Also, be aware it also involves wood smoke – masks will be provided.

Please note that there is a £20 materials charge payable to the tutor on the day. This covers 4 of your pots being glazed and fired, additional pots will be an additional £10 per pot.

Click below for what to bring.

What to expect

Time at ArtisOn is designed to take you away from it all and provide the environment, the time and the guidance you need to create. You can expect a warm welcome, skilled and friendly tutors plus the chance to meet like-minded people keen to share ideas and experiences. You can even leave us to clear up the mess! There will usually be two workshops going on and we encourage everyone to mingle and be nosey about what the other workshop is up to.

Arrive in time to meet other participants over a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits before beginning your session at the appointed time. There will be a mid-morning break for refreshments and a chance to talk over progress with others. Lunch is usually around 12:45 for about 45 mins – you can expect a homemade 2 course lunch. The main course will be delicious but don’t overdo it as the puds are usually worth waiting for! There will be a further afternoon break with the most wonderful cakes from Roots & Fruits Home Bakery, a North Yorkshire micro-bakery producing handmade bread and cakes. All food and refreshments are included in the price of the workshop.

Finish time is given as a target – there are occasions when the session may overrun so do let us know if you need to be away promptly.

We aim for your day to be a real treat… of course you could always learn a new skill in a shed or a draughty village hall with a curly sandwich, but we want you to have more fun than that! So we make it a day being looked after, with good food, good company and great inspiration!

What you’ll need to bring with you

Please bring a pair of marigold wash-up gloves or similar.

Please wear warm clothes and sturdy shoes.

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