While my everyday studio practice is one of solitude, my wood firings are a group effort. I fire my kiln twice a year with the help of two-four potter friends. In exchange for space in the kiln, they help with preparing the wood (chain-sawing, chopping, stacking), loading the kiln, firing round the clock for 30-36 hours and clean up afterwards. There is always great conversation and delicious food around the fire.
Wood fired pots tell a story. The story is recorded on each individual piece, in the mark of the flame and deposits of melted wood ash left along rims or infused in glaze and slip. They tell a story of time, tradition, dedicated handwork and collective energy. When these pots are used and appreciated, the story continues. It is passed on time and again, with each use, each drink and each meal.
- Wood is ready, cut, split and stacked.
- Glazed pots are ready for loading.
- Loading the kiln, each piece gets wadded.
- Fire is started in the hearth.
- Smaller pieces are used in the beginning.
- Stoking the front.
- Front of firebox during the night.
- Inside view of wood ash on the rim of a cup.
- View of cone packs through the spy hole.
- Empty palets at the end of firing.
- First look into the kiln.
- Each pot is inspected during the unloading.













I love this new presentation with all the excellent pics. And congratulations on a successful show in Philly.