The Raku Gallery

if you would like more information or would like to buy any of these pieces contact me at AWFL@imaginelearncreate.ca

 

Raku has its origins in a traditional Japanese method of low-firing clay notably for decorating bowls used in the Japanese tea ceremony.  In the traditional process the fired raku piece is removed from the hot kiln and allowed to cool in the open air,

  In the contemporary version of raku pieces are fired to around 1830ºF.  When the glazes have matured, the pieces are removed from the hot kiln using tongs and placed in a container filled with combustible materials, which immediately catch fire.  The container is then closed to allow the heat to draw the oxygen from the glazes and allowed to cool in the open air  The behaviours of the glazes can be unpredictable providing exciting and delightfully unexpected results.  Metallic lustres, patterns of littles "crackles" and actual cracks are typical desired results. 

Because the glazes contain metals and metallic salts, they should never be used to hold food or liquids.  All Raku Vases are semi-porous and should be considered as decorative and suitable for dried flowers if desired.  Do not fill with water unless you have a suitable glass insert.