Raku firing at Ettalong

The Ettalong Beach Arts and Crafts Centre will hold its annual Raku Firing Day on the June long weekend.

Group member Ms Marg O'Connell said members of the public could come along to the centre in Kitchener Park, purchase a pot and glaze it themselves.

"While it's being fired, grab a sausage sandwich and have a look around."

She said there wouldl be a display of the crafts taught at the centre and student works would be on sale.

Ms O'Connell said the 350-year-old tradition of raku began in Japan and is named after the family who initiated such firings.

She said the long tradition of raku firing was fascinating to all ages.

"Raku pieces became prized for use in Japanese tea ceremonies," Ms O'Connell said.

"In Raku, a ceramic piece is quickly heated to approximately 1800 degrees Fahrenheit.

"Raku firings are most often created in a gas or propane kiln.

"The gas flame is enhanced by an electric blower, which provides more oxygen to the flame making it burn hotter.

"After being heated to a red-hot 1800 degrees, the piece is removed with metal tongs.

"The Raku artist must wear leather protective gloves and light, cotton clothing to protect from the intense heat from the kiln."

The Raku Firing Day will take place on Sunday, June 13, from 10am to 3pm at the Ettalong Beach Arts and Crafts Centre located on the cnr of Picnic Pde and Maitland Bay Dr in Ettalong Beach.

Press release, 11 May 2010 Marg O'Connell, EBACC