Past Gatherings

For the first time in New Zealand a conference is happening dedicated to the art of wood firing. This will be the start of the renaissance for the wood firing fraternity and the best possible introduction for potters and ceramicists that have wanted to have a go with wood firing. The weekend is full of kiln building, kilns firing and an exploration of all things related to the wood fired pot.

International guests will lead the charge into the frantic pace of kiln construction, with participants expected to lend a hand and feel the clay under their fingernails. A variety of kilns, from small salt kilns through to large temporary kiln installations will be erected on site, pots made to fill them and then the fires are lit. A pyromania of heat and flame will ensure the weekend is an impression burnt into the memory of all.

There will be the sort of feasting and company that legends are made of and with camping on-site the partying and all night stoking vigils can last until dawn.

We are fortunate to be able to base the conference at a farm only a few kilometres from Whangamata, with plenty of room and facilities for onsite camping. Utalising the ready supply of wood, clay and imagination the weekend will unfold under the watchful coordination of Janet Smith, Maureen Allison and Duncan Shearer.

Participation by everyone is the magic ingredient that will set this conference apart – no timetable clashes, no dashing from one lecture hall to the next, instead a key set of kiln projects under the control of our guest demonstrators will arrest your interest and allow you to work along side other keen participants.