B English on thu 5 may 05
I attended Nan's workshop last summer and it was so great I have been
bugging her to let me know when the next one will be scheduled. Just
received the info from her as well as seeing it posted here (July 30, 31/2005).
Her studio is well equipped and there is a nice variety of glazes to use.
She is a very knowlegeable and caring instructor. My background is as a
secondary teacher in public schools and find that her patience and ability
to instruct others is excellent. After we were given the basics of salt
firing, glazing and assisted in the actual glazing of our bisqued pieces
which we brought with us, we loaded her new gas fired kiln and began the
firing. At this point she then gave us the opportunity to ask questions
about just anything to do with ceramics as well as gave us some helpful tips
about tools, showed us how to make a cutting wire which will add texture to
a piece and the glaze recipes she uses.
In the evening, we had a 'show and tell' session where each person talked
about their own work and showed examples of their pieces. This was a great
learning experience. Nan also showed us her own collection of other artists
work and then fed us a wonderful dinner. The next day we were given the
opportunity to help with the spraying of salt into the kiln. We first
watched from the outside of the building which is on a slope with windows
which are high above the kiln from the inside, but on the outside allow you
to view from above the kiln. After seeing the demo of doing the first
salting, I was convinced I wouldn't be able to do it ( I have a thing with
even cooking on a gas stove or lighting a propane barbeque). I finally
decided that I wanted to have the experience. The first session that I did
with a partner we were dressed for safety with special masks, glasses,
gloves and made sure hair was secured behind our heads, long sleeved cotton
shirts and lots of fear(my husband who was along for the ride took pictures
of the aliens spraying below). The first opening I did was the where one of
the burners was located. I quickly found out that even with the long gloves
my metal watch under them got very hot (be sure you remove all metal items
before doing this).
Both she and her family were very welcoming to all of us and made us feel
a part of their family while we were there.
Besides the great workshop, we lucked out with a beautiful weekend with
perfect temperatures. The best part was the results which we saw when the
firing was complete. Loved it!
Be sure to consider this workshop if you are looking for a salt firing
this summer.
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