Goodearth, New Delhi, 2017
Raku on Kachchhi traditional pottery
This is a project supported by Goodearth, Delhi. The project begins with exploring traditional shapes with Raku and later develop a range of products.
This is to bring an alternate surface treatment to Kachchh pottery with a different market approach. The project also aims at involving more young potters and train them in the technique of Raku.
What is Raku?
Raku is a technique involving a rapid firing cycle, the pots being placed in and removed from the kiln at or near the optimum firing temperature.
Its Japanese symbol means ‘enjoyment’- ‘a conscious return to the direct and primitive treatment of clay’.
Why Raku?
Thinking of working with glazes in a rural set up and existing work space of potters is not ideal but Raku as a technique fits best in these limitations and serve the purpose. The technique doesn’t require big set up and resources and is easily doable in the working scenario of the local potters.
Raku would be an alternate surface technique to Kachchhi painting, which can give a new identity to the craft all together. Design and product innovation with raku as a technique amalgamated with traditional shapes of Kutch pottery is another market approach which will serve a different clientele. Raku is the most feasible and appropriate technique to be introduced as a sustainable alternate to traditional pottery making.
