Raku is a glazing technique, using high temperatures and combustible materials, to create a reduction atmosphere. Due to the unpredictable nature of Raku firing, each piece comes out totally unique. In Japanese the word Raku translates into happiness in the accident, which reflects the exciting, random nature of how each finished piece will look. This gives a timeless and exciting, colourful finish.
Participants will start the session by glazing their pre bisque fired, Celtic lantern. You will have a variety of relief designs to choose from and you will be able to personalise your piece, with the glaze application. All nature’s elements are used in Raku firing, Earth to make the pot, Fire and Air for the kiln firing, where each lantern will be heated to 1100 C, and the glaze will become molten. Once removed (still at 1100 C), glowing from the heat, your piece will be placed into a chamber with combustible material and sealed. This creates the reduction atmosphere where the magic happens. The lanterns are then plunged into water, to cool them and halt the firing process. After time to cool them, they will be taken out and each participant will scrub their piece to reveal their personal creation.
Pick from one of four sessions throughout the day, leaving plenty of time to explore our unique site.
About the workshop
Book your slot:
10:15 - 11:45
11:30 - 13:00
12:45 - 14:15
14:00 - 15:30
Create your own unique and colourful piece of artwork
Each lantern will be fired once complete and taken away by participants after firing
Set in the unique surroundings of Butser Ancient Farm’s historic buildings
Jonathan Diorio trained as a Fine Arts Ceramicist, specialising in sculptural ceramics and hand building techniques. Diorio Ceramics Clay workshops aim to inspire people by giving them an experience of sculptural ceramics. Jonny Diorio has a vast amount of experience using ceramics educationally and therapeutically across a wide variety of client groups and age ranges, and is excited to bring his skills to Butser this Easter.
Included in your ticket
Entrance to the farm, a morning’s tuition and expertise, and use of all the tools and materials necessary to complete an attractive Celtic-inspired lantern, which will be fired and taken away by participants on the day.
WORKSHOP INFO
Please wear sensible clothing and footwear for this workshop. Lunch is not included, although sandwiches (subject to availability), hot and cold drinks, and snacks are sold in our gift shop. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic if you prefer!
This workshop is intended for adults, but suitable for ages 8+ (under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult with their own ticket).