Adrian Center for the Arts

Raku Face Jugs

Face jugs have a long tradition around the world. In the southern United States, the first examples date to the mid-1800’s and were crafted by enslaved African American potters who created these unique pieces for various purposes. In the furst session of this class you’ll be provided with a basic wheel-thrown jug to decorate using hand-building techniques to create a face that is uniquely yours! In the second session you will glaze your piece and we will fire it in the Raku kiln for you to take home that day.A little bit about Raku:Raku firing is a very hands on firing process that creates a very unique finish. Pieces are glazed then placed into the raku kiln where they are fired up to approximately 1800 degrees. Once the kiln reaches temperature the pieces are removed with tongs then placed into barrels filled with a combustible material such as saw dust or straw the closed. This creates a reduction rich environment, meaning in order to burn, the fire has to get the oxygen molecules out of the Clay body and glazes. This is how the rich coppers are developed and the clay body turns black.Students must wear close toe shoes and be prepared for live fire during the second session of this class. All materials will be provided.

 October 11th and 25th 2-4pm