Trial by Fire, Smoke, Sizzle and Steam

Jun 29

(all photo credits Madison Raye)

A Raku firing is not for the faint of heart. Eye Protection against infrared light, aerators to keep the lungs safe, and Kevlar gloves with 1800°F rating are needed to safely handle this unique firing process. It requires careful planning, stamina, teamwork, long tongs and a trusting belief that the rapid cool down of the clay pieces will lead to exotic blends of metallic colors — a sort of magic that makes all the effort worthwhile.

Such a Raku event took place on June 4, 2022, and was led by potters Rick Hernandez, Justine Nolt and Tiara Kinnebrew on the grounds of the Imagine Art Studio. It was part theater and part serious business. Onlookers gathered in the picnic-like setting to see if their clay contribution had made it in one piece, and to ooh-and-aah at the strange and delightful tints as pieces emerged from the combustion chambers (trash cans). Some had no color at all but were instead decorated with horse hair or feathers.

Ceramic Sale

Meanwhile, at the other end of the St. Luke compound in the Fellowship Hall and throughout the studio, the ceramic sale was in full swing. IA supporters contributed over $2,500 in art sales, ceramics and otherwise.