In Japanese, the symbol for Raku 楽 translates to fun, delightful or pleasure. A seal engraved with this word/symbol was marked on the early Raku pieces. It was the title and seal used by 15 generations of potters.
Raku is often considered as a singular process when, in fact, it encompasses a number of various techniques. The common denominator is that a bisque fired clay work is fired in a gas kiln and then removed with tongs from the kiln while glowing hot.
In this six- session hands-on class (held every two weeks) we will explore variations of Raku including ferric chloride spray, alcohol reduction, naked Raku, and Obvara submersion reduction in addition to the use traditional Raku glazes. Limited extra studio time will also be available.
Each attendee will be required to bring their own bisque fired pieces to experiment with during the course of the class. Also required will be attendees own personal safety equipment (safety glasses and N95 mask). Provided for the class will be all glazes and firing supplies.
If you have questions please contact instructor Mike Banyai at (231) 330-0910 or email mikebanyai@gmail.com.
***Refunds are unavailable for cancellations made within 48 hours of the class***
Michael Banyai has been involved with various aspects of ceramics for more than 20 years. Recently he agreed to help a small group do a one day Raku event. This moved from his house to the college where there are terriffic resources for all aspects of ceramics. The current class is a realization there are so many aspects of the concepts of Raku that one day would hardly scratch the surface of the idea of Raku. Making pots and artistic ceramics is a drawn out process which starts with the soft clay creation being first dried and bisque fired to harden the object after which various glazes or surface treatments are applied and then a refire in one of many different kiln enviroments. Raku kilns in general are lower temp fast fired usually. The plan is that folks will bring to the classes bisque fired work and that the glaze and fired results will be a shared experiance for all the class to observe and learn. Every effort to help the potters create bisque fired ware will be done including studio use during non class time.
