My Raku Journey

I was first exposed to Raku 40 years ago when learning to throw pottery at the University of South Florida in Tampa. I fell in love with it. The immediacy of doing Raku and not having to wait a day and a half to see the result of a firing appealed to my less than patient nature. I took advantage of the amenities available at the university and turned out piece after piece.

I’m not really sure where my style comes from. There is certainly an Asian flavor in much of what I do. As for form, I feel as if it just comes through me. I appreciate originality and try to bring that to my work.

When I came to California 37 years ago, to make some money I pulled Raku pots for Tony Evans, who at that time was the largest Raku producer in the world. I pulled hundreds of pieces in the short time I worked for Tony and at times it felt a bit nuts. We pulled 3-foot tall pieces without tongs, just using 2 sets of Raku gloves while wearing a fire-resistant suit.

I rediscovered doing Raku later in life and have immersed myself in the work. Much of what I love is that it offers the potential for constant discovery and new ideas. The act of throwing pieces is both a meditation and at times a challenge that I enjoy when throwing particularly difficult pieces. Throwing pieces is a wonderful way to get out of my head and into my body.

I have spent most of my life working to make a living and now I would like to work to express myself and hopefully share artistic pottery and Raku (Joy) with any of you who find my work appealing.

Steve Sanders