Learn all about the history and tradition of the Raku firing process, with a focus on its origin in 16th Century Japan and the unlikely collaboration between a feudal warlord, a Buddhist monk, and a roof tile maker that resulted in the development of a new style of chawan (teabowl) for the centuries-old practice of the tea ceremony. Take part in the decoration and firing of your own tea-bowls under the guidance of a practitioner with over ten years of experience.

Focusing on traditional, Eastern-style techniques and materials, wheel-thrown teabowls will be available for participants to decorate in two distinct styles: Aka (red) Raku involves the application of a red iron slip coated with a transparent glaze, and Kuro (black) Raku involves a rich black glaze that coats the entire piece, including the foot. These tea-bowls will be fired to temperatures much hotter than Western-style Raku and, after being drawn glowing red-hot from the kiln, are left to cool in the open air. This results in wares that, when treated with the appropriate care, can be used as drinking vessels as they have been for hundreds of years.

All materials and equipment are provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own lunch, or nearby options can be given on the day. Suitable clothing is advised: full cover of arms and legs and sturdy, full-cover footwear (no open toes). Please be aware that Raku firing involves very high temperatures, flames and smoke, and will be conducted in a covered outdoor space, so please dress accordingly for the weather. Class capacity is limited to 8 participants to ensure that ample individual attention and kiln space can be given.

To ensure the safety and enjoyability of the course for everyone involved, a full health and safety briefing will be given before ignition of the kiln, which participants will be required to comply with throughout firings.

Please ensure that a valid email address is provided when booking, as this will be used to confirm the booking and to provide updates ahead of the course if necessary. If you don’t receive a confirmation email upon booking please check your spam/junk folder. Please refer to the Location and Policies pages before making a booking.