Oi. It’s been a week since I got back from Bali, almost, and finally, a chance to catch my breath
I had the most amazing time at a raku workshop – for all of two weeks, it was non-stop making and learning and firing and smoke. All this was accomplished in the best of company – there were in total 6 of us at the workshop from far-out corners of the globe, with three of the most passionate and knowledgeable teachers ever – Marcello (throwing sensei), Michela (glaze sensei) and Hillary (all-around sensei and world-traveler) at GAYA Ceramic & Design. I am still reeling from the massive amount of information I’ve absorbed, and itching to get my hands in clay to practice what I’ve learnt
All this workshopping was sustained with some excellent two-hour lunches at the GAYA restaurant, mostly Italian and some local fare, and delectable cookies accompanying coffee. We even got to see a bit of Bali on two days out, bouncing over narrow roads with views of ricefields and mountains to take your heart away.
What I will remember most fondly though, is the utter sincerity of the teachers in conveying their knowledge, and the inspiring space all of it took place in. The factory space downstairs was FILLED with beautiful work, all handmade by a troupe of the most cheerful Balinese boys to incredible finish and precision. The space we participants worked in was completely equipped, a bamboo plateau open on all sides to let in sun and wind. Bliss! No wonder I was so bummed out on coming home…

Learning about 'naked raku' with Michela. Many of us spent whole afternoons burnishing patiently away with a little bit of coconut shell or a black marble pebble to get the perfect surface for this effect.

Playing with fire and smoke: Marcello demos some of the combustible materials used for raku. You can see the kiln at back.






































