SMOKE + SAWDUST

In this interactive community firing, students will learn about the entire process of pit firing starting with building and stacking a kiln, a multitude of ways to wrap and saggar wares and materials to add to the firing and the results they yield, and finally to how to seal and care for pots after the firing. A special collection of materials, combustibles and natural ingredients will be available to you during the workshop to create flashing and fuming on your pots and you will have the opportunity to prepare your bisqued pots for the firing. Demetria will demonstrate and discuss common materials to add into the pit and onto your pots along with techniques and methods to prepare your surfaces and the dramatic results they may yield.  You will have an opportunity to fire between 6-10 pieces, no more than 6” on any side, and refrain from flat works. Most clay bodies perform well in the firing and artists typically choose to use the clay they are already working with, but if you prefer low fire, raku and wood fire clay can do well with the thermal shock.