Raku Workshop with Malcolm Murchison
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About the event
Raku Pottery was developed in Japan in the early 1500’s as the Ceremonial Tea Ware of the Zen Buddhist Tea Masters. The word Raku signifies emotions such as fulfilment, enlightenment, and enjoyment of freedom. The process was preferred by the Tea Masters because it had a resonance of humility, purity, simple naturalness, which are important to the Zen philosophy.
Pots carry the marks of the tongs used to extract them from the kiln and the ravages of the firing. This is celebrated as an essential aspect of the process.
During the workshop you will learn how to:
– Create pots using the Raku process
– Apply wax
– Glaze pots
Apply the glaze with guidance and instruction from Malcolm, see the pots go into a red hot kiln, then see them extracted and placed in sawdust and flames before a bath of cold water. The results will be as beautiful as they are extraordinary. Take home at least four beautiful pots.
The finished decorative pots are generally unsuitable for eating or drinking from as they absorb water and have little mechanical strength.
Presented as part of Causeway Craft Trail Showcase and August Craft Month.
Where is it taking place?
Flowerfield Arts Centre,
185 Coleraine Road,
Portstewart,
BT55 7HU
When is it taking place?
Saturday August 6th, 10am to 4pm
Do you need to book?
Yes, booking is required. Bookings can be made online, here.
By Telephone +44 28 7083 1400
In Person at Flowerfield Arts Centre, Portstewart
About August Craft Month with Craft NI
This event is a part of August Craft Month with Craft NI, Northern Ireland’s celebration of craft. Summer 2022 will mark the 16th annual August Craft Month with makers all across Northern Ireland getting involved.
Contact details
If you have any questions about this event, get in touch with info@flowerfield.org
N.B. Caution is recommended if you have any history of respiratory illness such as asthma since the workshop will involve proximity to smoke. Please wear old cotton clothes, avoiding man-made fabrics. Long hair tied back. A hat is a good idea. You will smell of smoke as if you have been at a garden bonfire. This workshop will take place outdoors.
Disclaimer
All August Craft Month events are run independently by the event organisers. For questions regarding the event please contact the event organiser directly.