This September the galleries at Willits Center for the Arts will feature work by ceramic artists Leslie Campbell, Jason Sovanich, and Margi Gomez, much of which has been wood-fired in a hand-built traditional Anagama kiln. The Anagama kiln is a high firing kiln brought to Japan from China via Korea in the 5th century. Anagama is a Japanese term meaning “cave kiln,” consisting of a single chamber with a fire box at one end and a flue at the other. Wood is stoked into the fire box continuously for up to eight days, heating the pots to 2500*F and creating a variety of unique surface effects.

As the temperature rises the burning wood produces fly ash and volatile salts. Wood ash settles on the pieces during the firing, and the complex interaction between flame, ash, and the minerals of the clay body form natural ash glazes. The placement of the ceramic work in the kiln, the type of clay and of wood used, the length of the firing, and the temperature achieved all affect the outcome.

The walk-in kiln at Leslie Campbell's studio high on the Albion Ridge was built 10 years ago by well-known area potter Nick Schwartz using stone, brick and clay. Studio technician Jason Sanovich takes the lead loading the many kiln shelves, balancing the work of several potters to fit as much work as possible into the kiln, and sealing it closed when it is full. Between 5 to 8 other potters and sculptors work in turns stoking the kiln day and night for more than a week straight. After waiting days for the kiln to cool down, all the participants gather to form a brigade, passing the newly fired work to waiting tables

The process is a true community effort, but it is said that loading an Anagama kiln is the most difficult part of the firing. The potter must imagine the flame path as it rushes through the kiln, and use their experience and knowledge to “paint the pieces with fire”. The range of color and texture of the ceramic pieces that emerge is vast and endlessly interesting.

The Willits Center for the Arts presents Painted with Fire, opening on Saturday September 6, showcasing this ages old but newly popular ceramic art. Enjoy an artist talk, tasty nibbles, live music, and a choice of refreshments and beverages.