Quebec
ceramist Jose Drouin
mainly uses Raku as a firing method. Raku is a firing
technique which was developed in Japan for making
the bowls used in the tea ceremony. With this technique,
the incandescent pieces are removed from the kiln
using tongs and placed in a straw-filled container.
Cutting off the oxygen supply causes the glazes
to shrink, thus creating unique and flamboyant colours.
Pieces fired using this method remain porous; it
is therefore not recommended to keep water in them
for long periods. However, you may very well use
them for drinking tea or for eating your favourite
dish. Raku is recognizable by its dark colour and
the smell of smoke which lingers on the piece for
some time.
Jose also uses a high-temperature firing method,
mainly for sculptures, her large amphora's and new
pieces. These pieces are fired at a temperature
of approximately 2,380 degrees Fahrenheit and are
not porous.
Artist’s
Statement
My work consists of two interdependent parts. On
the one hand, as a craftswoman, each day I wedge,
throw, shape, glaze, trim and fire my pieces. On
the other hand, underlying this daily work is a
long quest nourished by the hope that I can create
living objects in which other human beings can see
themselves, living traces, a familiar presence.
My main sources of inspiration are forms evoking
other cultures, as well as human and animal figures.
I hope that the piece of my pottery you purchase
will bring you enjoyment for a long time to come.
Raku
Technique
Raku is a centuries old firing technique developed
by the Japanese. The pieces of pottery are fired
outdoors in a kiln fueled by wood or propane. The
pieces are heated very quickly to the red hot stage
and while the glaze is still molten, they are pulled
out of the kiln and into the air. The iridescent
colors and/or crackle surfaces are a result of the
chemical reaction of the glaze materials oxidizing
when the posts are removed from the kiln. To stop
the oxidation process and control the surface effects
and colors, the pots are then places in a pit or
container, covered with combustible materials and
sealed airtight with a lid. This is called a reduction
atmosphere. This reduction of oxygen stops the flaming
and produces thick black smoke which permeates the
clay body and produces the unusual, spontaneous
surface effects.
