Pit Firing and a Picnic

Pit firing is an ancient low firing method, used to turn clay pots in to ceramic. Modern Pit Firings are often constructed to produce highly decorative surfaces. Pit Fring can produce a spectrum of colours which are imparted in to the surface of the pots from the vapour from specific combustible materials and chemicals. As implied in the name, pit firing is essentially a big wood fire which is traditionally done in a large hole in the ground. Jack our Firing Guru has professionally worked in the ceramic industry since the mid 1980s and has taken part and lead many different group firings such as Wood Firings, Raku Firings and of course Pit Firings.... he has even fired a clay house. On the firing day you will arrive at Studio Nioka and be directed past the Anagama Kiln and Sculpture Garden, down to the meadow where you will meet Jack and discuss the placement of your pots in the pit. Everyone's pots will all be loaded promptly in to the pit and it will be time to start the firing!The first hour or so of the firing will be action packed with stoking and motoring of the firing until the pit will be shut down to smoulder. Then it will be time to pull out your picnic rugs, boil the kettle and settle in. Anyone who has creative energy to burn is welcome to get involved in making some 'Pit Protectors' more commonly known as 'Kiln Gods' to look after our pots while we relax. While the pots are simmering it will also be a good opportunity to roam the garden for inspiration and check out Studio Nioka and the Anagama Kiln. After a good soak in the pit our pots will be ready to unload, we will all get involved in digging up the treasures from our pit and discover the results of your efforts. There will be a debrief about results and an opportunity to clean and treat the surfaces of your pots with different varnish, wax ect.With a full belly, new friends, happy heart and beautiful pots under your arms it will be time to head home, until the next firing at Studio Nioka.

• Double my allocated number of pots for the pit ($60)

You can add these when you book (optional).
 
You will need to have the means to make your pots ahead of the firing day
  Space in the pit firing for either 1 pot 20cm x 20cm or 4 pots 10cm x 10cmPre-prepared Pit and FiringA beautiful and unique decorative surface on your creationsA day out at Studio Nioka Pre-made, bisque fired and 'dressed' potsPicnic equipment and food

This experience would also be a cool gift for her, gift for mum or gift for couples.