WORKSHOP REPORT

Potters in the East Kootenays were fortunate to be
offered, last November, a Glaze Workshop. Jan Grove of
Victoria introduced us to the formulation and composition
of workable glazes and slips for the medium firing range.
At last a range suitable for electric firing! This was
a workshop we sorely needed.

Potters who live in larger centres are probably un-
aware of the isclation and frustrations of an East
Kootenay potter. Our nearest supplier is in Calgary,
350 miles or more away - a formidable journey in winter.
Potters are few and far between - no hopping down the
road to borrow some zinc oxide, = no one to discuss a
problem with or share a discovery. A phone call to a
fellow craftsman 80 miles away is not uncommon. Most
of us work alone with the aid of a few well-illustrated
books like Michael Casson's, The Craft of the Potter.

Eleven potters braved the wintry weather and the snowy,
icy road conditions, Coming from as far afield as Creston
and Invermere, they converged on Centre 64, Kimberley.
Some of them had driven 90 miles each way for both days.
We were both surprised and pleased to find that we have
fellow potters closer than we thought.

Jan explained to us the basic needs for a glaze. We
examined the formulas of the common glaze materials and
discussed their purpose within the glaze. He explained
the calculation process leading to usable glazes. He
showed us how to select a substitute glaze material,
when necessary, and how to accommodate within the formula
any new elements the substitute might be bringing with
it. We were told the purpose of limit formalas, how to
control firing temperatures, how to achieve a matt effect,
and the use of colour oxides. We mixed, tested and fired
all calculated glaze batches and evaluated them the
following morning.

Jan gave us an excellent slide showing of some of his
work and shared with us the secrets of his glaze effects.

Thank you Emily Garr College of Arts and Design
Qutreach Program.

Jean Warland - Cranbrook, B.C.