Sharon Mackay – Rondure

In Raku, the temperature climbs to 900 degrees very quickly before the vessel is taken and placed into a reduction chamber of combustibles resulting in a smoky atmosphere which produces beautiful unique carbon markings.

With Saggar firing, the piece is covered in various materials and then wrapped in a cocoon of afloat before being taken to 700 degrees. Once temperature is reached, the piece is unwrapped and horse hair is placed strategically across the piece resulting in unusual markings never to be repeated.

The risk of breakage is high due to the extreme temperature change and overall shock to the piece, but the excitement of these processes is like opening a treasure box full of mystery and surprise.