Raku. An Introduction to Making, Glazing and Firing

When & Where

9 June 2023 - 15 July 2023 ( 20 hours, 5 weeks )
Evening, Friday, Saturday
View course timetable
Waterloo Centre

Quick Facts

Availability No
Tutor Alex Huber
Course Code W22CRSA07A
Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

Raku involves rapid firing and cooling in specific outdoor kilns. This course, at Morley Waterloo Centre, provides a full opportunity during evening sessio ns to make, bisque fire, and apply glaze. On the Saturday you spend the day outdoors firing. It is suitable for the complete beginner. Raku does not create f unctional objects. One kiln load per student is allowed due to the firing schedule to accommodate 12 students works. This usually amounts to 5 - 6 medium sized objects. DATES 11,18,25 June, 2 July, 8 July, 10 July. This course provides 4 making sessions and 1 glazing in the evenings, plus 1 firing day on a S aturday. All students must follow physical distancing guidelines as explained by your tutor. There is a reduction in the course maximum of students in the Ceramics studio, which has been adapted to facilitate a safe learning environment. Students are asked to bring their own apron or coveralls to wear in the studio and a personal hand towel, both to take home and wash between sessions. Before and after using any shared equipment, students will be asked to wash their hands. We strongly advise you bring and wear a face protector. Please bring and use you own tools - we also have basic tool packs to purchase.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Understand the basic process and working methods of Raku making and firing
Make appropriate work with relevant clays and specialist glazes to create Raku objects
Understand the principles and appreciate the variety of surfaces that can be achieved
How to work with others as a team to create work using this outdoor kiln firing technique
Safe working practice with regard to health and safety and issues regarding outdoor firing

Cost

Full fee

£210

Concession fee

£160

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Class format and activities

You will take part in a power point explanation of the process.You will be making a range of objects during the practical sessions. The tutor will give you feedback and practical help with different making techniques to realise your ideas. You will be glazing your work with Raku glazes and different decoration and application techniques. You will take part in a Health & Safety induction. You will help to set up the firing site and actively take part in the firing process and post reduction firing treatment of your work, following Health & Safety guidelines.

What you need to know before you enrol

Some tasks on the firing day can be strenuous, however there are less physical tasks that can be assigned if required. Please advise your tutor if you are pregnant or have a physical disability so they can assist and give guidance where necessary.

What you need

For the making and glazing classes: a sketchbook, Apron. For the firing day: a respirator (can be purchased for £5 from your tutor), a long sleeved top or shirt, long trousers and closed leather shoes or boots. Combustable materials such as sawdust (discussed in class). There is a material charge of £2 per kilo for work made in class. This includes all firings and glazes.

What you can do next

You would gain the appropriate knowledge to fire your own Raku kiln. Enrol onto ceramics classes at Morley.