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Raku is an ancient technique originating in Japan in the 16th Century along with the tea ceremony and influenced
by Zen buddist philosophy.

The tea ceremony was formulated during that time
by the great Tea Masters to promote the contemplation
of the beauty of simplicity, "wabi".

"Wabi is a beauty of things imperfect,
impermanent,and incomplete.
It is a beauty of things modest and humble.
It is a beauty of things unconventional."

In Raku the pieces are removed with long tongs
from a red hot kiln. The glowing pot is then rolled in various materials (sawdust, leaves, paper), thus changing the colour and the chemistry of the pot.

This process requires total involvement and an intimate understanding of the materials, transforming the pottery into sensual and dramatic forms of Art.

Russells Raku Ceramics is a fascinating and original expression of contemporary ceramics, created by Andy Russell, originally from Cornwall together with his Italian wife Stefania, his apprentice and business partner. They work together inspiring each other with a creative energy.
This produce a distinctive and original theme of work that
reflects their passion for life, nature and freedom of expression.

They concentrate exclusively on single ornamental pieces whose design and colours as well as the whole process of their work are greatly influenced by the scenic beauty of the Burren, and the moody Atlantic sea.

The raku requires experience, involvement and continuity to be successful: more than 20 years of experience and research in technique of shaping, glazing and firing have made Andy a skilled artist able to combine imagination, originality and an intimate understanding of the materials.