Blue Line Arts

Experience the excitement of Raku pottery in this immersive, one-day workshop! Designed for ceramic enthusiasts, this class focuses on the dynamic and fast-paced firing technique rooted in 16th-century the Japanese tea ceremony tradition.

What You’ll Learn:
-The fundamentals of the Raku firing process, including preparation, firing, and post-firing techniques.
-Essential safety measures and best practices for working with Raku kilns.
-Hands-on participation in the firing process, transforming pre-made bisque-fired pieces into stunning works of art.
-Techniques for achieving unique finishes, crackled glazes, and smoky patterns that make Raku pottery so captivating.

Who Should Join:
This workshop is open to all skill levels, though prior clay experience is recommended.

Participants will be provided with 2 small bisque-fired pieces to paint with the glazes of their choice and then assist in the firing these works during the class.

What’s Provided:
-A choice of 2 Small pre-made, bisque fired pieces from the selection provided.
-Glazes and all necessary firing materials.
-Expert guidance from an experienced instructor.
-Access to local resources and tips for continuing your Raku journey, including glaze formulas for any that want to pursue creating their own glazes in the future.

Objective:
By the end of the class, you'll have a deeper appreciation for the Raku process, a foundational understanding of its techniques, and beautiful, one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces to take home.

Join us for this unique opportunity to explore the artistry and spontaneity of Raku firing in just one day!

All materials included.

*Workshop will be held at D Street Studio in Lincoln, CA. Address will be provided to participants a week before the workshop.

Teaching Artist: Ray Gonzales

Date: Wednesday, April 30th, 2025

Time: 12:00PM - 5:00PM

Required Age: 18+ years old

Member Price* per session: $110

Non-Member price per session: $132

*please note: to unlock member price, members must sign in to account

In need of financial assistance? Learn more about our SCG stipend and apply online

https://www.bluelinearts.org/event/scg-workshop-ll-with-ray-gonzales-raku-firing-techniques

"I work in clay. It has always, always been clay for me. The tactile, visual and narrative qualities are what drew me in and have kept me focused since my beginnings on this humble and incredible material. The endless possibilities keep me riveted. The contemporary, the historic, the ancient and the cultural works in clay provide endless inspiration for me. I see myself in it.

My sculptures are narratives. Stories of my experiences as well as reflections of world events- both past and present, historical and personal. My ancestry and cultural traditions are paramount to me and oftentimes included in the works.

My wheelworks include both traditional and contemporary directions. Color, form, surface and scale are included in my process when creating these works. I am constantly exploring variations with clays, glazes, raw surfaces and multiple firing techniques using electric and gas fired kilns as well as Raku and primitive firings. Life is good."

~Ray Gonzales

During the open studio hours, you will have the privilege of witnessing Ray Gonzales in action as he demonstrates his artistic techniques and shares insights into his creative process. This interactive event allows you to engage directly with the artist, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the inspiration behind his masterpieces.

Tuesday - Friday excluding Workshop Days

Start Date: Tuesday 4/15/25

End Date: Friday 05/02/25

Open Studio

Time: 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Free to all guests

Registration is not required but encouraged.

https://www.bluelinearts.org/event/scg-open-studio-hours-with-ray-gonzales

"I work in clay. It has always, always been clay for me. The tactile, visual and narrative qualities are what drew me in and have kept me focused since my beginnings on this humble and incredible material. The endless possibilities keep me riveted. The contemporary, the historic, the ancient and the cultural works in clay provide endless inspiration for me. I see myself in it.

My sculptures are narratives. Stories of my experiences as well as reflections of world events- both past and present, historical and personal. My ancestry and cultural traditions are paramount to me and oftentimes included in the works.

My wheelworks include both traditional and contemporary directions. Color, form, surface and scale are included in my process when creating these works. I am constantly exploring variations with clays, glazes, raw surfaces and multiple firing techniques using electric and gas fired kilns as well as Raku and primitive firings. Life is good."

~Ray Gonzales

During the open studio hours, you will have the privilege of witnessing Ray Gonzales in action as he demonstrates his artistic techniques and shares insights into his creative process. This interactive event allows you to engage directly with the artist, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the inspiration behind his masterpieces.

Tuesday - Friday excluding Workshop Days

Start Date: Tuesday 4/15/25

End Date: Friday 05/02/25

Open Studio

Time: 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Free to all guests

Registration is not required but encouraged.

https://www.bluelinearts.org/event/scg-open-studio-hours-with-ray-gonzales