Wood fired pots hold a large amount of sweat equity.  The time spent cutting, chopping and stacking wood, wadding each piece, loading it into the kiln and stoking the kiln for 35 hours is recorded on each pot.  The reason I love to fire with wood has as much to do with the surfaces as it does with the process.  The physical labor involved in a daily studio practice and pending firing keep me fit and outdoors throughout the year.  Un-bricking the door after the kiln has cooled and seeing the fruits of this effort is a sweet reward.    

An important component to my firing process is community.   A small group of fellow potters put their work in the kiln in exchange for help with wood prep, loading, stoking the fire and clean up.  We all share in the endeavor and the achievement.  More than one pair of hands was involved in the making of these pots.  They tell a story of collective dedication and energy.  When they are used and appreciated, the story continues and is passed on to the user.