RAKU

The firing technique of "Raku" ware was first developed by Chojiro, founder of the first generation of the Raku dynasty, in the 16th century. The word "Raku" comes from the ideograph engraved on that gold seal. "Raku" when freely and loosely translated can mean joy, enjoyment, pleasure, comfort, happiness, or contentment. The word "Raku" thereby became Chojiro's family name/title. The Raku firing technique utilizes a rapid rise in temperature in a fuel fired kiln. At glaze maturity, the Raku items are then taken out of the kiln and placed in an air-tight container with shredded newspaper and sawdust, and a short time later the Raku items are taken out and either air cooled or sprayed or dipped in water.

Gary Ferguson is an artist whose main firing technique is the raku style. He believes that using this techinque makes every piece unique becuase the exact process can never be reproduced. His main influences have been from Japanese, Chinese, and Celtic art. He likes the geometric patterns that are present and often incorporates it into his own pieces. Ferguson often times combines elements from various cultures into a single form. http://www.rubensraku.com/rubens_raku_site/design_pages/Raku_History.htm http://www.garyrferguson.com/bio.htm

Below to the left is one of Gary Ferguson's pieces. And below to the right is what a Raku firing looks like.
A wheelthrown Raku platter by Beth Ann Maragas.