Fired up with Raku - Irene Poulton

01 Dec 2006

studiopottery.co.uk's Comments

This book, written by Irene poulton is based on her experience of more than 20 years working with Raku. (More information about Irene can be seen by Clicking Here). It is primarily a book for potters or students who either already create work in Raku or would like to know more of the practical details and plan to get started

That said, this book could also be very useful for Galleries and Collectors who have an interest in buying or selling Raku. I found the introduction very helpful in clarifying my understanding of how raku developed and the difference between Traditional and Contemporary methods.

There is also a vast range of Raku glazes which should satisfy the most demanding artist. There is a section on Firing and Raku kilns, with useful comments and advice throughout.

The section on Techniques and Problems ends with a useful summary table of "Tips and Tricks" which i guess would be very helpful. Again, as a collector I was interested to understand about various defects and why they occur.

Usefully there vare images of pieces using many of the glaze recipes listed giving a ready understanding of what for example a "Tin Can" recipe produces.

This comprehensive section is followed by amnother on 'Alternative Methods and Materials of Decoration' This includes detail on various reduction techniques.

Rounding the book off are some 36 pages of practical ideas and comments, including some glaze recipes and individual personal statements from some of the leading Raku artists around the world. These include: Wally Asselberghs
Steven Branfman
Gary Ferguson
David Jones
and several others. All have provided images of their work which along with the many images of irene's work make for a very enjoyable read.

In summary this is a practical and effective book which enables the many years of Irene's accumulated knowledge to be available to all who need it in an easy and enjoyable format.

I think this book will be welcomed by ceramicists and collectora alike. Editor 7.12.2006

Facts:
Publication Date: 2006
Price: £14.99
ISBN:1-86126-848-3
Binding: Paperback
Publisher: The Crowood Press LTD, Ramsbury, Marlborough, Wilshire SN8 2HR
Website: www.crowood.com
Edition: 1st

Please mention www.studiopottery.co.uk when contacting the publisher.