Everything is better with a dash of salt! Join Reed Fahnestock, Watershed’s Studio Manager, to learn about the effects created by the introduction of salt to a high-fire kiln environment. We will fire Watershed’s 18 cubic foot gas-salt kiln, introducing sodium in the final stages of firing. You will learn about the history of salt firing and how to fire Watershed’s salt kiln, including loading, safety, and bricking up the door. You will learn how different clays, slips, and glazes affect the finished appearance of ceramics when exposed to sodium vapor. This workshop also serves as an orientation for local artists interested in renting the Watershed salt kiln for future firings.
A separate glaze workshop will be offered on Thursday evening for those interested in using Watershed’s stock glazes. These cone ten glazes have been selected for their suitability in atmospheric firing environments on both stoneware and porcelain. Reed will discuss individual glazes, application methods and the results that can be expected from different slips and glazes.
*Maine K-12 art teachers may attend this workshop with support from a $150 scholarship. See sidebar below for information and teacher scholarship application. Teachers only need to submit the scholarship application and do not need to also register via the link above.
What to Bring
All work must be cone 10 stoneware or porcelain. Work should be bisque fired and glazed in advance (unless you are attending the glaze workshop) and should not exceed eight inches in any dimension. Smaller work is encouraged to fit between larger pieces. The kiln is approximately 18 cu ft., allowing for approximately 3 cu ft of stacking space per person.