Outside Devon • Raku Course in South Devon

Class Information

In this course you will learn the ancient art of Raku. From clay to ceramic, we will take you through this unique method of firing.

Originating in Japan in the early 1550s, Raku is considered one of the most magical and exciting forms of pottery.

Removing the pot from the kiln when it's glowing red and placing it in a container containing flammable materials causes a vigorous reaction, creating patterns and colours rarely achieved by traditional firing.

Join us for our two day course to experience one of the most natural techniques in pottery, harnessing the four elements to create something truly unique.

Day One

Craft two items of your own design, either through handbuilding or throwing on the wheel (10cm x 10cm each). Initially taking inspiration from other Raku fired pieces, then forming your own ideas through collaboration with our studio manager Fran, to achieve a traditional Raku item. Break for lunch, then trim, refine or decorate your pieces to your own taste.

Day Two

Get to know the Raku technique through glazing and firing. We will be joined by guest artist Sue Luker who specialises in Raku and will be guiding us through the firing. First, design your surface texture using various glazes and wax resist techniques. Break for lunch, then, assist in the exciting and unique firing process, by plunging your red hot piece into a bucket of combustable material. See your work ignite into a plume of flames and watch the transformation that unfolds. Once firing is complete, you will be able to polish and finish your work, ready to be taken home that day.

All materials and firings are included in the course price as well as a delicious lunch on both days. Please let us know of any allergens or dietary requirements prior to the day. You will also receive a complementary coffee on arrival.

This course is suitable for all abilities ages 18+, no previous Raku knowledge or experience is required. We supply aprons but please wear clothing that you don't mind getting dirty!

We are running two courses one on Wednesdays and one on Fridays. You will need to be able to attend both dates of your chosen course.

Class Dates & Times:

Wednesday 2nd & 9th April 10:00 - 16:00

or

Friday 4th & 11th August 10:00 - 16:00

Both courses will be limited to a small group of six people, we will let you know with as much notice in advance of any changes to the date or time of any of the classes. Please see our calendar for more courses.

All participants of the course will be require to sign this waiver form before participating in this course.

If you are interested in this course but these dates don't suit you or it is fully booked please email us at pottery@outside-devon.com to register you interest and be put on a waiting list.

Cancellations

You have 14 days from booking this course in which to exchange or cancel and receive a full refund, if you have booked last minute and there are less than 14 days before the date of the class no refund or exchange will be offered, but you can transfer the booking to a person of your choice to take your place.

Any questions please call or email us hello@outside-devon.com

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Your Tutor

After gaining an HND in ceramics and glass at Plymouth Collage of Art and Design in 1998 Sue set up a ceramic workshop near Kingsbridge and in 2000, and became an elected member of the British Craft Potters Association, elected as a Devon Guild member and joined the West country Potters association.

It was at Salcombe Art Club that she had her first taste of teaching ceramics, “Creative Hand Building” and Raku. The enjoyment of teaching led her to take teaching qualifications and running classes in Adult Education as well as in her workshop then through the “Big Hands Little Hands,” Devon Guild's school outreach programme.

Her workshop has now expanded to accommodate a growing demand for her work which has been shown as far as Cumbria to Cornwall including London’s Victoria & Albert Museum.

"Vitreous slips, clay slips and engobes perform almost like paint on a canvas, the liquid quality of the clays enable them to be used to add emotional expression to my ceramic work."

Her work has been exhibited around the country and abroad, as well as in private collections in the UK and overseas.

Private Ceramics Classes

Private classes are a perfect for a group of friends or family who want to try something new! This is a unique way to mark a birthday, reunion or celebration of any kind and can be tailored to suit the event and your abilities.

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