No experience necessary – all are welcome!
Join artists Tim Isaac and Jenna Ross for a hands-on Raku workshop that brings fire, clay, and creativity together in an unforgettable outdoor experience. Whether you are a seasoned potter or new to ceramics, this is your chance to take part in the magic of Raku firing from pulling red-hot pots from the kiln to watching dramatic finishes emerge in real time.
WORKSHOP OVERVIEW:
- Dates: Saturday & Sunday, June 14-15, 2025
- Time: June 14: 9AM-5PM, June 15: 9AM-3PM
- Fee: $200 per person. (Includes two full days of instruction, all materials, and your finished pieces to take home.) *No refunds for cancellations within 7 days of the workshop.
- Location: Jenna’s house in Knowlesville
- To register: Call 506-392-6769 or email: info@mccainartgallery.com
PLEASE NOTE: Your pots must be made and bisque-fired BEFORE the workshop.
This is essential so your pieces are ready for the Raku process.
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR POTS:
All participants must create and bisque-fire their pots ahead of the workshop. We’re offering two options to help you get ready, both with instruction & support from Jenna, and both are held at the River Art Centre. (8746 Main Street, Florenceville-Bristol)
Option 1: “Make it” Day
Saturday, May 24, 12PM-4PM
Option 2: Clay Drop-in Sessions
Thursday, May 29 OR June 5, 6pm-8pm
Meet Tim!
“I’m originally from Brandon, Manitoba. I found my passion for clay about 35 years ago in Winnipeg, where I took a class with some inspiring young professional potters. My love for clay deepened in Waterloo, Ontario. I became a member of the local Potters’ Co-op while also finishing a degree at the University of Waterloo.”
Meet Jenna!
"Hi, I'm Jenna and I have a deep love of clay! As it turns out, I love getting my hands dirty. The walls of my home are even (unintentionally) covered in clay. I continue to be amazed at all the things this wonderful material can do. I've been drawn to the magical art of clay shape-shifting on the wheel from a blob to a form since I first watched a potter as a kid."
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN:
- The dramatic process of Raku firing.
- Natural burnt-surface decoration using the Obvara technique.
- How to use feathers and horsehair for striking carbon markings.
What is Raku?
Raku is an exciting pottery technique involving red hot posts and combustible materials which can create dramatic effects. Raku dates back to 16th century Japan, although "Western-style raku" has put its own variations on the technique. Raku firing is known for its unpredictability, and each piece is one-of-a-kind! Raku firing is one of the most natural pottery techniques, embracing imperfection and employing all of nature's elements: earth, fire, air, and water.
The work raku translated to English means: 'happiness in the accident', pleasure, enjoyment, delight!
