Atmospheric Firing with Emma Smith
March 18 - 28, 2025, (10 days)
Introduction
The Atmospheric Firing Retreat is an opportunity to explore various ways of turning clay to stone, using the four elements: fire, water, earth, and air.
Throughout this 10 day intense, we will load and fire the wood kiln twice, as well as the on-site soda kiln. Students should bring work that has already been bisque fired, or join us for the Round, or Not Retreat, March 7-17 and make work on site.
We will start the course with conversation and demonstration surrounding decorating and glazing decisions, diving into the elements of art and design and exploring surface treatments specific to atmospheric firing. We will learn loading considerations that take advantage of the ash and flame path, exploring various wadding materials, alternative and efficient ways to stack, and how to clean up the work post firing.
Post firing critiques and group exercises will also be facilitated, encouraging collaboration and skill sharing.
PREREQUISITES
This course is suitable for anyone who loves fire, from beginners to clay to seasoned makers who are looking for more intentionality and mastery in their practice! Bring your bisqued work from home to include in the firing, or simply show up to deepen your understanding of pyrotechnology.
Cost
For the 10 days, the cost includes: all meals and drinks, all trips and tastings, all tools and materials, train station pick-up and drop-off. (It does not include shipping your work home.)
Without accommodations: €1,975
In a shared cottage, single bed: €2,425
In a shared cottage, queen bed: €2,685
In a shared cottage, private bedroom, single bed: €2,785
In a cottage to yourself, queen bed: €2,855
Partners, Plus-ones, and Families are welcome if you choose a cottage to yourself. Cost for their food, trips, etc: €1,200
Before deciding, I highly recommend having a look at the location where the retreats are held either via their instagram or website. It’s truly spectacular.
If you’d like to stay for the Round, or Not retreat as well, the cost for all 21 days is
Without accommodations: €3,500
In a shared cottage, single bed: €4,500
In a shared cottage, queen bed: €5,300
In a shared cottage, private bedroom, single bed: €5,700
In a cottage to yourself, queen bed: €5,900