Saggar firing is a fascinating technique within the ceramic process that allows for the creation of unique and intriguing effects on ceramic objects. During saggar firing, the objects are placed in a saggar, in this case made of aluminum foil.

Inside the saggar, organic materials and chemicals are added, such as sawdust, salts, metals, and even hair or textiles. These materials react with the ceramics during the firing process, producing special and unpredictable color effects and patterns on the surface of the object.

Using a raku kiln—a fast and intense method of ceramic firing—the saggar is heated to high temperatures, typically around 900-1000 degrees Celsius. The combination of heat, combustion of the added materials, and the sealed environment of the saggar results in spectacular coloring of the objects.

In this workshop, you will have the opportunity to transform two pre-fired objects using the exciting saggar firing technique. At the end of the workshop, these objects will be fired for 45 minutes in a raku kiln, allowing you to closely observe the entire process. The objects will be transformed by the magical interaction of heat and added materials in the saggar, giving them an entirely new appearance and character. After the workshop, you can take home the artworks you’ve created.

Danielle van Assema is a raku ceramicist passionate about creating ceramic artworks. Her work focuses mainly on raku and saggar firing techniques, where she achieves unique effects and textures. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and passion by teaching workshops on alternative firing techniques for ceramics. “As an artist, my approach is characterized by the motto ‘the beauty of imperfection.’ I believe that true beauty in ceramics lies in the imperfections and unexpected elements of the creative process.”