Saggar-fired work 

This work has been fired in saggars (containers) inside of the kiln to create a very localized individual atmosphere around the piece. It is an ancient technique that was used by the Chinese in the wood-fired kilns to protect the work from the ash of the fire being deposited on the glazes. Since I use no glaze, the work shown here is the result of the effects of sawdust, copper carbonate, and salt being directly absorbed into the smooth surface of the clay. The various colors and patterning are the result of materials placed inside the container and the heat of the firing. This process, like my other firing techniques, is not about total control of the outcome, but a giving-over to the firing process.