Techniques: Raku, Saggar, and Metal

Clay is my material, and I most commonly use stoneware fired twice in an electric kiln, with varying oxide and slip treatments for the surfaces.

A body of my works were fired using raku and saggar techniques in a gas raku kiln. This is a firing technique that requires strength and nerves, with its open flames and handling of 1,800+ degree pieces, burning red hot. Pieces can delight and surprise, or they can just as often explode. Such is life.

I’ve also participated in a number of iron pours and a few bronze pours, an arduous, unpredictable, but exhilarating process.