Introduction

Karatsu is a ceramic tradition that flourished in Japan in the late 16^th to early 17^th century. Despite being enormously influential within Japan, it is relatively unknown outside of the country. In this course we will explore the unique tools and techniques of the Karatsu Ceramics Tradition. Furthermore, we will examine the simple approach of the Karatsu potters, touching on the origins of Karatsu ware.

Tecniques of Karatsu Ceramics

In this course, Karatsu potter Michael Martino will teach throwing techniques and underglaze brushwork, as well as coil and paddle handbuilding techniques. Michael will lead students in the making of the necessary tools for implementing these techniques. In addition, Michael’s approach to clay and glaze material preparation, glaze formulation, glaze application, functional decoration, and firing will be covered. The course will focus mainly within the the framework of wood fired stoneware, and participants will fire their work in the Bagnano Express wood kiln toward the end of the course.

Methods

Workshop time will be devoted to hands on teaching, a combination of demonstrations by Michael, followed by assistance and advise to students as they practice what they have observed. There will also be photographic presentations aimed at introducing participants to the varied styles of Karatsu ware, the history of the tradition, modern examples of Karatsu ware, and kiln firing tools and techniques.

Logistics

On every classday, a delicious meal will be served. Lodging is included as well.

The Artist and Instructor of Karatsu Ceramics

Michael Martino grew up in rural New Mexico and urban Texas, USA. His interest in pots came from being exposed to a multitude of pot shards and stone tools discovered while playing as a child in the hills of northern New Mexico. Michael first moved to Japan in 1990, and has been steeped in the ceramic tradition of Karatsu since 2002 when he began an informal apprenticeship with veteran Karatsu potter Tsuruta Yoshihisa, his mentor in both ceramics and kintsugi. He established his studio in 2007 in Taku, Japan, and built his anagama style wood kiln in 2011, dedicating himself to making beautiful (mostly) functional ceramics out of local wild clay, stone, and ash.
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