Soda Firing with Mike Stumbras

The process of glazing and firing is complex, mysterious, and oftentimes a bit frightening. Glazes support a pot’s identity, functionality, and tactility; but glazing can be dangerous to pots and frustrating to many. Mastering the art of integrating challenging firing techniques into your creative processes hinges on actively engaging in the gazing and firing process firsthand. In this workshop, students will learn about and participate in the firing of a Cone 10 reduction soda kiln * with special attention paid to achieving spectacular microcrystalline surfaces.

In order to demystify the firing process, Mike will speak about strategies for glazing and preparing work for the kiln including methods of layering glazes, considerations for variegated and microcrystalline glazes, and applying overglaze gold and pearlescent lusters. Students will put these considerations into practice on their work and on provided test tiles.

While the kiln heats up, Mike will talk about some of the considerations involved in finding your voice in clay and finding your way around the studio. We will discuss developing your work conceptually; the decisions and entry points involved in working with galleries; basic equipment maintenance, repair, and operation; the basics of self-critique; as well as technical strategies to improve your own work. 

Students should bring bisqueware for glazing (of the specified firing temperature) as well as some examples of finished work (images or objects). Studio Amoca will provide some basic test tiles in stoneware, bmix, or porcelain. Ceramic artists of all levels are welcome.

Refunds are not allowed after the workshop begins. Refunds requested during the week prior to the start of the class will be honored at 50%. Refunds requested prior to this will be honored minus Eventbrite fees. If you would like to request a refund, email [email protected].

Mike Stumbras received a BFA in ceramics, a BS in biology from St. Olaf College in 2011, and an MFA in Ceramics from Louisiana State University in 2017. He completed residencies across the country. Formerly a visiting assistant professor at the College of William and Mary and a Lecturer at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Stumbras has exhibited work nationally and internationally. Mike is currently an Assistant Professor in Ceramics at Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville.

Host or Publisher American Museum of Ceramic Art