Fall 2026: Wood Fire Class AND Firing
Tuesdays, 6-9PM (Class meets September 15 to November 3, firing to follow)
LOADING : November 6-8 All work must be brought to the kiln by the morning of Friday, November 6
FIRING: November 10-18
UNLOAD: November 28-29
TUITION: $380 members / $395 nonmembers
Teaching Artist: Jack Schwarze

Intermediate to advanced students only - basic understanding of ceramics and ability to create wares independently is necessary. This class is NOT for beginners.

Ideal for those desiring instruction and/or access to facilities.

Mandatory attendance of first-class meeting: Tuesday September 15 at 6pm (both class and firing only participants)

This class explores the nuanced, demanding, and rewarding practice of wood-firing ceramics. Students will deepen their understanding of this process. Exploring new ideas and possibilities in their wares. Conversations will cover necessities for crafting wood fire wares- such as clay body, surface, and building strategies. We will discuss kiln mechanics, loading and firing, unloading, and cleaning wares.

Class will culminate in a week-long wood-firing in an Anagama style kiln. Students will learn stoking and kiln management as part of a team. To prepare for the firing, students must spend 10 to 15 hours working at scheduled preparation days outside of class time. Tasks will include splitting wood, stacking wood, and other necessary activities.

Students will take an active role in the firing by working 3-4 six-hour stoking shifts. The firing is roughly 200-hours, scheduled for eight days. The firing may conclude earlier. Participants must work cooperatively to learn, with a focus on safety and communication.

The wood kiln is at a remote site, about 8 miles outside of town. Students must prepare to fire in all weather conditions. Students will be responsible for their own transportation to and from the kiln.

INCLUDED:

First bag of clay
Bisque firing for all pieces created for the purpose of the class, as well as access to fire multiple works in the Clay Studio of Missoula’s Anagama wood kiln.
Access to open studio appointments for work time outside of class; for the length of class
Teaching artist will cover how to sign up for appointments on the first day of class

We ask that students comply with all of our health and safety guidelines. Students must sign a class waiver at the beginning of any class to confirm their agreement and provide an up-to-date emergency contact for studio records. Students must also sign a waiver for the wood kiln site and activities.

Class is limited to 10 students max.

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