Raku Pottery by Joann Cassady

Raku is a traditional Japanese firing process dating back to the beginning of the 16th century. Traditionally this technique was used to produce tea bowls for the tea ceremony. The characteristics of the pieces at that time were simple and had no decoration. Since then, Raku has evolved to become a popular form of ceramic art.

This firing technique involves a very rapid heating and cooling of the pieces. Each piece is first bisque fired to prepare it for glazing. The glazed or unglazed pieces are then placed in a kiln and fired to a temperature of 1500-1800 degrees Farenheit (or until the glazes melt). While the glaze is still molten and glowing hot the pieces are removed from the kiln with tongs and placed into a container full of combustible materials (like newspaper, straw, leaves or sawdust). After igniting, a lid is placed on the container starving the oxygen from the atmosphere and reducing the glazes to these dramatic metallic or crackle finishes. The process requires total involvement and an intimate understanding of the materials, transforming the pottery into sensual and dramatic forms of art.

Even though I prefer the look and feel of “Naked Clay” or unglazed pieces, occasionally I do enjoy glazing for Raku firings. I love the interaction with the glowing hot pieces as they're pulled from the kiln and the change the glazes go through after the reduction firing. The pieces I make for Raku firing tend to be fun pieces like yard art, rattles or wall hangings. I especially love making all sorts of fish. During the firing process the glazes change so drastically they bring the fish to life! To link to my fish gallery, click here.