WHAT TO EXPECT

Ceramic artist Barnaby Hosking will be leading a Raku Retreat this summer for up to six people. Raku is a low temperature, fast firing technique originating in Japan that produces dramatic and unpredictable surface effects. The 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, and it is in this manner that we approach the work, ourselves, each other and the beautiful countryside on this truly unique retreat. We will be focusing on “Naked” Raku techniques, which means that the bisque ware is not 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. During the workshops you will learn - How to make and use terra sigilatta to burnish your work prior to bisque firing. - The making and firing of a basic Raku kiln. - Saggar Firing, Indian smoke technique, Horsehair and feather technique, Barrel firing. The retreat will be held in Barney’s Barn, which is also Barney's art studio: a large Norfolk thresher barn in the village of Barney with outbuildings, gardens and concrete patio allowing complete freedom to explore the endless possibilities of Raku firing, whatever the weather. Both days will start at 9am and finish at 5pm when we will wind down with some Yin yoga and meditation (both optional), before walking to dinner at Barney’s restaurant in the village of Barney. 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 Flow Space under Barney's guidance please book a hand building class or alternatively, for one-to-one sessions, you can contact him directly.