Last month, the Baltimore Clayworks’ Noborigama kiln came to life for another exciting community wood firing, bringing together artists, staff, and residents for several days of collaboration and around-the-clock dedication.
The firing was led by Hannah Kautto (2025–26 Long-term Resident Artist), Katherine Pon-Cooper (2025–26 EMBARC Fellow), Shea Kister (2022–24 Long-term Resident Artist), Bernadette Larimer (Front Desk Associate), and Evelyn Cox, whose combined experience and teamwork kept the kiln burning continuously throughout the firing.
Wood firing is one of ceramics’ oldest and most rewarding traditions. Unlike electric or gas kilns, wood-fired kilns require constant attention, with wood being added regularly over many hours to maintain the temperatures needed for successful results. Every decision: from the type of wood used to the timing of each stoke helps shape the finished surfaces, making each firing a unique collaboration between the artists, the kiln, and the natural elements.
Baltimore Clayworks is fortunate to have a Noborigama kiln, a traditional Japanese-style climbing kiln built on a slope. The word Noborigama generally refers to a partitioned, multi-chamber kiln designed to fire large quantities of ceramic work. Its sloped construction allows gravity to naturally draw hot flue gases through the chambers, helping maintain consistent high temperatures throughout the firing.
For many participating artists, the anticipation continues long after the final flame dies down. Opening the kiln reveals weeks or even months of preparation transformed by fire into one-of-a-kind ceramic works. Every piece tells the story of the firing itself – where it was placed in the kiln, how the flames moved across its surface, and how ash settled during the process.
Wood firings like this are more than technical achievements. They are community events that embody the collaborative spirit of Baltimore Clayworks. They bring artists together to share knowledge, support one another, and continue the centuries-old tradition of transforming clay through fire.
We extend our thanks to Hannah Kautto, Katherine Pon-Cooper, Shea Kister, Bernadette Larimer, Austin Hodges, and Evelyn Cox, who contributed their time and energy to make this firing a success.
