Raku refers to a process of making one of a kind pottery. This art form originated in Japan for producing utensils for tea ceremonies. The Raku technique involved in making this pottery requires the pots being taken out of the kiln while still glowing hot. In America the process has been expanded to include post-firing reduction. What Bob does is to take the pieces out of the small kiln one by one while they are glowing yellow hot at 1900 degrees Farenheit. He uses a pair of three foot long tongs to place the pot in a metal container with sawdust or paper on the bottom. He closes the container and lets the smoky atmosphere alter the glaze to make each piece unique.

Raku bowl

Raku vase

Raku vase 

Sari has been with Gallery In The Vault since nearly the beginning. Sari stopped by during the Functional Ceramics Workshop being held at The Wayne Center For the Arts here in Wooster. She introduced herself and the rest is history. If you need a wedding present or simply something useful and beautiful her pottery is the place to start looking.

Pitcher

Tray

Wine Cooler

Sharon Wagner is an Ohio artist walked in one day and wowed us with her facejugs and her original designs that are salt glazed in a Holmes County wood fired kiln. We collect facejugs and consider her a must have for the serious collector. Sharon's pottery has a great feel and look!

Face Jug 

Lidded Jar

Vase

We found Michael Kifer at The Functional Ceramics Workshop here in Wooster. We were blown away by his bright colors and designs. Truly one of the most beautiful uses of glazes we have seen.

Mugs

Bowl

Tray