Tuesday was the day I’ve been waiting for. At 1.30pm sharp the team were all there, waiting to start the unloading of the 107th firing of the Soda kiln at Shadbolt Centre. The kiln is showing its age, with some nasty chunks having fallen into pots which were placed on the bottom ledge of the door. Tony was considering whether repairs are in order or if a door replacement is needed. That kiln is in constant use these days.
Look at the variety of colours and of shapes. We are being asked to bring along taller pieces these days. When the shelves are filled with mug-sized pots the flow of flame and soda isn’t as exciting. It’s always a surprise when you see how the surfaces react. I was pleased to see several of my pots at the front. There are those grooves on the vase, and my two jugbirds.
As usual we ten participants took on the scraping and kiln-washing of the front shelves before the removing of the back pots could start. We all wear masks, eye protection and gloves to protect us from flying glass fragments.
The pots are passed from person to person, from the kiln to tables so that we can see every piece as it goes by. There’s lots to learn from each other, new slips and glazes and forms to try out next time. I asked and will try to remember who was there this time. We were Julie, Melissa (who tells me I taught her at Shadbolt years ago!), Hannah, Fran, Ursula, Allysha, Dave, two Cheryls and me. Did I miss anyone? Tony and Cheryl S were the day’s techs and we were visited by Jay, Brit and Fredi. In my quiet life it’s good to connect with fellow clay addicts on these occasions.
Thank you to the Shadbolt team for making it possible for us to experience these atmospheric firings on a regular basis. Your expertise and kindness mean a lot to this aging potter. Now I’m told I can register for Fall firings next week. TriCity Potters, we are lucky to have an October slot set aside for our group, so fish out that stoneware clay over the Summer.
Below, I photographed this large Bird Vase and the groovy Vase after I got back home. The sun popped out for a moment.
When I have some more minutes I’ll post another blog showing my pieces in more detail.
We’re having a few days of Arts activities here in the City of the Arts. Last night I attended a fine talk by painter Leanne M. Christie at PoMoArts. Her energetic, but delightful paintings are all about her home city, Port Moody, referencing its history, memories and ongoing change. Her show is well worth a visit.
https://pomoarts.ca/exhibitions/even-if-i-wasn-t-here
Tonight we will be attending a reception to mark the first 25 years of the Port Moody Arts Centre Society, down at City Hall. I believe there will be tea.
And tomorrow I’ll be meeting local artists who are working towards reactivating the old ArtsConnect, Tricity Arts Council, down at Coquitlam’s Mackin House.
Saturday promises more rain for a family day which might have a birthday cake.
Looks like you had some great results. I’m sure everyone was pleased. Thanks for sharing.
Always so good to read your blog & see your photos, Gillian. The pottery is amazing – thanks for sharing this firing, Dianne.