Starting on Saturday 11th January, clay artists learnt how to build a salt kiln at the Raglan Old School’s Clay Shed, learning from tutor Susan St Lawrence. Susan says, “Several years ago I learnt to make a ‘Wee Beauty’ of a salt kiln from a design provided by Peter Lange. It was the first of many purpose-built performance kilns I’ve had to tackle since in order to fire my large sculptures. Although not a natural at kiln building, with a few kiln-building guidelines and welcome help from my friends, we achieved some astounding results. So I fervently believe, if I can do it, anyone can!”
And that’s what happened at the workshop. The summer school participants built an affordable small gas-fired brick kiln. (See photo). And then they fired it up the next day when the Raglan Creative Market was on for some soda and salt glaze firing.
The workshop participants obviously learnt a lot and enjoyed the kiln-side fun.