Shortly after my move to Oregon in 2022, I was drawn into a vibrant community of potters all fascinated by atmospheric kilns. A gas fired soda kiln workshop quickly led into my first winter season of firing wood kilns at East Creek Art in Willamina, Oregon. After attending over eight wood kiln firings, I am still filled with wonder for all that these tools have to offer. Nothing quite compares to carefully tuning one’s senses to the cues of a wood powered kiln as it roars towards peak temperature.

I am sometimes asked by friends and relatives why I choose to pour so much time and energy into these intensive firings when I could so easily and efficiently fill an electric kiln. I have come to realize that it is the mystery of these firings, the unique stories that each pot tells when it is finally revealed, and the vibrant community bonds that form during these retreats into the woods, that leave me craving the next season of experiments.

Throughout the year, particularly when the wood kilns are shut down for summer fire season, I also fire a small soda kiln at my shared studio space in Portland, Oregon. I have encountered a subtle palette of dappled white porcelain, speckled by crushed granite and painted by flashes of dark blue carbon trapping that leaves me full of wonder and gratitude for this kiln’s beautiful personality. I look forward to continuing my adventures in glaze and clay research to reveal more surfaces to explore and share.