What is Raku

Raku ceramic is derived from the Japanese art of firing pottery. The western take on the eastern practice is to fire the pottery very quickly and cool it quickly. It’s an exciting and unpredictable way of creating ceramics because of the different colors and markings that come out of the kiln process. We should point out right away: when you buy or receive a Raku vessel, don’t expect to use it as a liquid container. On its own, it’s not waterproof. If you have to use it as a vase, put in flowers without water. This kind of ceramic is really meant to be admired vs. functional.

In traditional Raku pottery, the pieces are shaped by hand. In western Raku, many potters will use their throwing wheel as well. Raku pottery gets fired up in many different kinds of “ovens.” When you search YouTube you see outdoor trashcans over a fire pit, and large metal bowls, and a variety of ways that potters are heating up the clay. A big reason for this is that Raku doesn't require the high heat of a traditional kiln - the clay matures at a much lower temperature than most other earthenware. The process of firing involves removing the piece from the oven at its maximum temperature. And the “Raku” happens when the piece is taken from the kiln while still very hot (red in color, in fact). Then it’s put in sawdust or newspaper. This will starve the piece of oxygen and create a unique pattern. Like a lottery number, no two come out alike.

This beautiful piece is by Mathews, Virginia artist Sue Henshaw.

Raku Vase with Copper Hole by Sue Henshaw