Sat 31 Aug
and
Sun 1st sept
2024
Join us for a unique raku retreat in North Norfolk. Learn the techniques of western "Naked" Raku firing over 2 days.
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Western raku is a low temperature, fast firing technique originating in Japan that produces dramatic and unpredictable surface effects. This retreat is suitable for anyone with little or no experience of alternative firing techniques, but who can bring their own bisque ware (see below).
The word Raku in Japanese means ease, pleasure and enjoyment so it is in this manner that we approach the work, ourselves, each other and the beautiful North Norfolk countryside on this truly unique retreat. We will be focusing on “Naked” Raku techniques: Bisque ware that has not been glazed prior to Raku firing so that the clay's burnished "Naked" surface is suitable for the absorption of markings created by smoke, fumes or soluble chemicals. The work is usually then sealed and polished with clear furniture wax.
You will learn...
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How to make and use terra sigilatta to burnish your work prior to bisque firing.
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The making and firing of a basic Raku kiln.
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Saggar Firing, Indian smoke technique, Horsehair and feather technique, Barrel firing.
Please note that to make the most out of this retreat you should bring your own bisque fired work (fired to no more than 950 degrees celsius)
If this is not possible then we can supply you with simple tea bowls and test tiles to experiment with. If you require guidance to make your work feel free to book any of our hand building sessions at least three weeks before the retreat and we will supply you with a suitable Raku clay and Terra sigilatta.
Ended
250 British pounds
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SCHEDULE:
Both days will start at 9am and finish at 5pm when we will wind down with a post- Raku body stretch and an NSDR (Non-Sleep Deep Rest) session before walking to dinner at Barney’s restaurant in the village of Barney.
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WHAT IS PROVIDED:
Tutoring, Raku materials including use of safety gear. Lunch. Tea, coffee and snacks throughout the day and stretching/NSDR sessions.
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BRING YOUR OWN WORK:
This retreat requires that you bring your own bisque fired ceramic work of a ‘modest’ size. The work must be well constructed in a suitable Raku clay and be burnished or coated with a polished terra sigilatta (TS) surface applied prior to bisque firing. If you are unable to bring your own work you can contact Barney to purchase test tiles and/or tea bowls which are already bisque fired and applied with TS. If you would like to make your Raku work at Dalston Clay under Barney's guidance please book a hand building class or private session.
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LOCATION:
Wood Farm Barn, The street. Barney. Fakenham. Norfolk NR21 0NN
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ACCOMODATION:
There are plenty of airbnbs in the area and also an award winning campsite just twenty minutes walk away:
www.old-brick-kilns.co.uk. The nearest towns are Holt and Fakenham, both three miles away, where you will find hotels and bed and breakfasts.
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TRANSPORTATION:
Trains run hourly between London Kings Cross and Kings Lynn (Approx £40 return. 1hr 40mins), a taxi to and from Kings Lynn costs approx. £30. ​
As a CIC and Social Enterprise, it is our intention is to make Dalston Clay a studio that is available to everyone, regardless of financial circumstance. While we need to function as a business, we never want money to be the reason why someone can't benefit from what we've built. If you truly can't afford the full cost of our offerings, we invite you to contact us to discuss your situation and we will endeavour to sort something out.
