Joanna Drummond is an Alberta clay artist working primarily in Raku. She has worked in clay for over 20 years and continues to push her discipline and creativity in new directions both in her own studio and in workshops she instructs.
Joanna’s knowledge of design, stains and glazes has allowed her to explore the various methods of firing clay while embracing the element of surprise. Her desire to let go of what was thoughtfully planned enables her to discover the unknown. The spirit of clay art makes no demands, expects nothing, follows no absolute plan and makes the artist feel secure in change, at the same time, learning how to accept other solutions.
Joanna is inspired by well-known clay artists such as Peter Voulkos, Paul Souldner and John Gibson. She continues to expand the boundaries of her own work, incorporating the natural elements, various glazing techniques, and ever changing forms.
Joanna has participated in numerous group exhibitions showing her work at both private and public galleries including The McMullen Gallery, Profiles Public Art Gallery and The Muttart Conservatory as a member of the Sculptors Association of Alberta. Joanna has two group public murals to her credit.
Her work is included in the permanent collection of The Alberta Foundation for the Arts. She is the recipient of The United Nations International Women’s Day Celebration Award for philanthropy.
Raku Technique Raku is a centuries old firing technique developed by the Japanese. The pieces of pottery are fired outdoors in a kiln fuelled 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.
Mountain Galleries in Jasper was proud to host Raku demonstrations directed by Jose Drouin and Joanna Drummond in the summer of 2007. Both artists worked together to successfully complete 5 live Raku fires here on site, causing quite a stir of excitement.
