Getting Ready for Raku

The Abington Friends School Art Department is preparing for a very special visitor to our campus this April, ceramic artist Brett Thomas. Brett will be bringing his mobile raku unit to run raku firings of ceramic pieces created by lower, middle and upper school students. Raku firing is an outdoor firing method using direct flames and natural materials which burn on the surface of ceramic pieces to create a variety of finishes. To learn more about raku and Brett Thomas, visit his website: http://www.mobileraku.com/

      One of the goals of the art department in developing this event was to build community and create connections surrounding art across grade levels. As the Lower Schoolers have begun creating pieces that will later go in the raku firing, the 3- and 4- year old students have been paired with 3rd and 4th grade buddies to help them create their projects. Their buddies will also be responsible for firing their young friend's work on the day of Brett's visit.

                            

Photos by Alicia Fernández

3rd Grade's List of Traits of a Good Teacher

Before helping the early childhood students, the older students brainstormed some qualities of a good teacher. Friends agreed that good teachers listened, were joyful, helped their students without doing the work for them, made their students feel comfortable and encouraged their ideas. The 3rd and 4th grade students did a wonderful job of connecting with younger peers, guiding them in their work and sharing with them in the joy of art-making.

Every Lower School student will be making two pieces that will put in the raku firing. All grade levels have been very excited to start this momentous project!