Winter Session: Wood-Firing Class AND Firing
Tuesdays, 6-9PM
January 6 - March 3
Loading : March 6-9 All work must be brought to the kiln by the morning of Friday March 6
Firing: March 10-17
Unload: March 28-29
Teaching Artist: Jack Schwarze

$380 members / $395 nonmembers

Basic understanding of ceramics is required with experience in either hand building or throwing - this class is not suitable for beginning level students.

Ideal for those needing instruction and access to facilities.

- Mandatory attendance of first-class meeting- Tuesday January 6 at 6pm (both class and firing only participants)

The class explores the nuanced, demanding, and rewarding practice of wood-firing ceramics. Students will deepen their understanding of the materials used in this process to explore new ideas and possibilities in their work. Conversation will cover technical, formal, and material considerations necessary in crafting work for the wood kiln- such as clay body choices, surface treatments, and various building strategies. We will discuss kiln mechanics, loading and firing, unloading, and cleaning the wares.

Our journey will culminate in a week-long wood-firing in an Anagama-style kiln. Students will learn different stoking patterns, how to control the kiln, manage the coal bed, and effectively work as a team to fire a wood kiln. Leading up to the firing, students will spend approximately 10 to 15 hours working at scheduled preparation days outside of class time- tasks include splitting wood, stacking wood, and other activities necessary to prepare for a firing of this magnitude.

Students take an active role in firing the kiln by working 3-4 six-hour stoking shifts throughout the firing. The firing is approximately 200-hours scheduled for eight days. The firing may conclude earlier. Participants will work as a cooperative community striving for a shared experience of learning with a precedent placed on safety and communication. The wood kiln is located outside at a remote site, approximately 8 miles outside of town. Students should be prepared to fire in all weather conditions and are responsible for transportation to and from the kiln.

Included in class fee:

First bag of clay
Bisque firing for all pieces created for the purpose of the class, as well as access to fire multiple works in the Clay Studio of Missoula’s Anagama wood kiln.
Access to work in studio outside of class meeting time
Access outside of class time is restricted to business hours when other programs are not in session in the classroom, and additional monitored times. Your instructor will orient you on reserving access appointments on the first day of class.

We ask that students comply with all of our health and safety guidelines. Students must sign a class waiver at the beginning of any class to confirm their agreement and provide an up-to-date emergency contact for studio records.

Class is limited to 10 students max.

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