Wood firing

with Jari Vesterinen:

We are thrilled to announce that Jari Vesterinen has agreed to come from all the way from Finland to Wales for the week running up to the Ceramic Wales, and for the duration of the show, where we will be building and firing a “Philosophers kiln” a type of fast fired wood-kiln that can be constructed, packed fired and unpacked over the course of a few days. We are aiming to open the kin on the Sunday.

Artists statement:

“The Finnish wild clays and wood-firing process form the foundation of my artistic Journey and creations. The unique contrasts between the shapes and the surfaces of the raw pieces result from the distinct qualities of the self dug clays and the natural ash and ember deposits. The heat deformations and breakdowns during firing are not flaws but essential features that add character to my work. Our Anagama kiln is more than just a tool. The Physicality and the challenging nature of the firing process evoke a sense of historical continuity and a harmonious co-existence with the power of nature. I view my pots as human figures, each with their own story and temperament, rough and shiny surfaces and a balance between stability and fragility. They radiate a glow of light and fire but also possess and unpredictable shadow side.

Sustainability is using wild clays, local material and anagama firing. In Finland you can’t buy domestic highfiring clays. You have to go and dig them yourself in Puolanka, Northern Finland, one of the few places you can find Kaolins near the ground. Our wood is left-over material from the local sawmill or landowners. The most crucial glaze materials are ashes from different wood species burned separately when heating stoves. The reason for my choices is high consideration for the environmental impact, even if it relates to aesthetic preferences”