I am building a small anagama, a type of Japanese wood fired kiln.

The land has been cleared and we worked with a carpenter friend to build an open walled shed to protect the kiln and offer shelter for all the work that happens around the firings.  After a good bit of foundation work I have begun laying the kiln floor and will continue as much as I can before winter sets in. Thanks to a really generous donor/angel all of the bricks for the kiln have been purchased (though I am still calculating for the chimney. I’m hoping to get used bricks perhaps).

The pots are loaded carefully into the kiln and then fired using solely wood. 

It will take several days for the pots to reach temperature. In the meantime the wood ash is distributed over the pots and melts to create rich and beautiful surfaces. The kiln cools for a day or so and then the pots can be unloaded. Pots need to be cleaned and sanded before they are complete. To me, this type of firing yields great beauty. 

It is exciting to start to see my dream unfold. I am very grateful for all of the support I have received so far.  Your contributions and belief in me are tremendous.   Estimated costs for this project are $10,000 - $15,000 and contributions have gotten me to a great start. Thank you.  Please help me make this dream happen with whatever you can contribute. In thanks for your donation you will receive some pottery! Click here to learn more about the kiln design, materials...