Introduction to Soda Fired Ceramics with Kyle Johns

This workshop will be two parts. First, focusing on heavy reduction carbon trapping and spraying soda in a cross-draft gas kiln. Students will learn glaze and slip application firing, loading the kiln, spraying soda, creating a carbon rich atmosphere, and analyzing draw rings. During the workshop, we’ll also discuss aesthetic issues, making strong functional pots, and creative problem-solving. We will focus on form and discuss surface as a way to articulate the geometry of the pot. Demonstrations will include object design, throwing and handle making. We’ll use Slips and texturing tools to develop surface forms and talk about how those relates to the soda firing process. Students should bring their own bisqueware to apply slip and glaze before firing.