raku

Raku is a fast firing method of melting the glaze which originated in Japan.
The glaze melts around 1850 degrees and is removed from the kiln at that temperature and placed in a container of combustible materials where it reduces in temperature.  The carbon created enhance the surface and glaze.  The vessel can then be moved to a container of water for quick cooling.

My work often focuses on the basic shapes of spheres and cubes and reintroducing these forms in their pure simplicity. The surface treatments consider clean lines and angles in  design while adding a visual excitement via the lines and shapes that make up the negative space, a result of the smoking process of raku.  Raku is a fast glaze firing technique which results in an aged crackled effect when using translucent glaze recipes. Larger works take on an architectural feel with their straight edges and elongated proportions and are often considered to have an Asian influence in form, color, and glazing style.