Raku Firing Workshop (B)
Adult Intensive | Available
Head over to VisArts' courtyard and join us for some raku pottery firing—an exciting approach to pottery surface design! Participants will glaze their pieces, help load them into the kiln, grab a beer or snack across the street at Goatocado, then return to enjoy the campfire-like atmosphere with friends on our back patio.
- Bring your own piece of pottery to fire (maximum dimensions to fit in our kiln are 6"x 6"x10") or buy a piece to fire from us for $10-$20. Bring extra pieces in case there's more kiln space and pay an extra $5 to fire them! Confirmation of Raku classes will happen the Friday afternoon of that weekend.
Accessibility notes: Many artmaking processes require the ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time, fine motor skills/finger dexterity, repetitive motions, vision, and some amount of physical strength. VisArts values making classes accessible to everyone, and is always happy to work with students to make accommodations when possible. Please reach out to info@visarts.org with specific questions related to accessibility or accommodations.
Raku firing is an active, hands-on process that involves working with fire and ceramics at high temperatures. Participants should be aware of the following physical requirements:
- - **Lifting & Carrying:** Students will need to safely lift and move buckets filled with pottery and combustible materials. This may require moderate upper body strength.
- - **Mobility & Quick Movement:** The process involves moving between the kiln, reduction bins, and water quenching areas, sometimes at a brisk pace. Participants should be comfortable with quick, controlled movements in a dynamic environment.
- - **Heat & Outdoor Elements:** The firing takes place outdoors, often in varying weather conditions. Heat sensitivity should be considered, as students will be near an open kiln and flames.
- If you have any physical limitations, please reach out before the class so we can discuss possible accommodations or ways to modify participation for your safety and enjoyment.
Classes are confirmed one week prior to the start date. In order to help us confirm classes, please register as early as possible.
Students will need to bring a piece to fire or buy one of ours.
On-site courses do not come with studio access outside of class time. Paid open studio access is available through our Studio Access Program. Please visit visarts.org for more information.
Paul Klassett
Paul has a BFA in photography from the Corcoran School of Art in Washington D.C. He began doing pottery in 2000 and has been teaching ceramics at the Visual Art Center since 2012. Currently he shows at Shockoe Bottom Clay gallery in Richmond, Va. He also exhibits at various art festivals through out the central east coast.