Far left: Artist Vicki Rega prepares the pit and unpacks pottery.

Left: Pottery has been partially buried in fine sawdust in a single layer.  Portions within the sawdust layer will darken with carbon during firing. Exposed portions are individually  dusted with powdered minerals and salts to react with fire and create one of a kind coloring and smoky clouding.

 

The entire process takes two days. Wood is added, and the pots are  repeatedly exposed to periods of intense fire and smoke, alternated with breathing periods.

After a period of slow cooling (to prevent cracking), the pit is uncovered and each pot’s unique beauty is revealed.