Community One: Observations at the Governor's School

Zen Raku

The 2001 Institute July 22-27, 2001 Erie, PA

Journal created by: Peter Metcalfe and Suzanne A. Shuey

Standard Addressed(9.2.8) -Historical and Cultural Contexts

Standard Statement (9.2.8.I)-Identify, explain and analyze philosophical beliefs as they relate to works in the arts.

Goal Statement - Identify Zen Buddhism as a philosophy which began in Japan.Intrinsic in this philosophy is a sense of humility and a simple naturalness which directly relates to the Zen Masters process of raku pottery.

Earthenware has been a universal craft practiced among nearly all civilizations of the world.

Pottery remnants remain due to clays ability to withstand extreme heat!!!!

Raku pottery developed in Japan over 400 years ago as the Ceremonial Tea Ware of the Zen Buddhist Masters. Information source provided by Jonathan Twersky the ceramic teacher of the Gov. School (modotti.hypermart.net/history.htm)

The raku process in the eyes of the Zen Masters reflected the fundamental rhythm of enlightened life and so the cycle of earth, fire, air and water is complete.(modotti.hypermart.net/history)

Although non-functional,its decorative subtle beauty was its only worth in the eyes of the Zen Masters.

During raku firing the clay is exposed to extreme stress creating unique surface effects.

Glaze colors include dark brown, orange-red, ivory and green.The desirable metallic effects and dark crackle lines are a result of the correct glaze application and a fast postfiring reduction.

It is believed that the "Spirit of the Maker" is embodied in the form and revealed at the foot which is traditionally left unglazed.