Autumn Outdoor Firings: Obvara & Raku Workshops

This Autumn, POP is taking you outdoors to try alternative firing techniques. Join us for a day of fire, smoke and experimentation as we explore the unique surfaces and unpredictable beauty of Obvara and Raku.

Obvara Firing

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Obvara Firing *

Obvara firing is a traditional Baltic firing technique dating back to the 12th century. Unlike glazing, Obvara creates its distinctive surface by dipping red-hot pottery into a fermented mixture of flour, yeast, sugar and water, before immediately quenching it in water. The intense heat caramelises the mixture on the clay, producing rich earthy tones, smoky patterns and organic markings that make every piece completely unique.

In this offsite workshop, led by Max Thiel, you'll experience the excitement of working with the organic materials and firing. You will observe and learn the Obvara firing process, from understanding the fermented mixture, the firing techniques and dipping piping hot pieces in the slurry to achieving beautiful, unpredictable surface effects. Perfect for those who looks to explore an alternative firing technique and embrace the beauty of chance in ceramics.

Raku Firing

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Raku Firing *

Raku requires no introduction! An exciting alternative firing technique that embraces spontaneity and transformation. Pots are removed from the kiln while glowing red-hot and placed into a reduction chamber filled with combustible materials. As the flames consume the oxygen, the smoke and carbon interact with the clay and glaze to create dramatic crackles, metallic lustres and rich smoky surfaces.

In this workshop, you'll be introduced to the complete Raku firing process, from loading the kiln to the final reduction. Experience the excitement of removing glowing-hot pottery from the kiln and watch as fire, smoke and chance transform each piece into something completely unique.