RAKU WORKSHOP WITH INGRID AND ANDRES ALLIK
4th – 6th of july
Raku workshop with Andres and Ingrid Allik
4th – 6th of July 2026
For the first time, we are pleased to announce a Raku workshop with Andres and Ingrid Allik from Estonia. Thanks to their extensive technical knowledge and experience, over the course of three days participants will have the opportunity to learn how to build a simple Raku kiln and how to fire it. A selection of raku glazes will be introduced, and participants will also have the opportunity to learn the naked raku technique.
Raku is a low-temperature ceramic firing method that originated in 16th-century Japan and was closely connected to Zen Buddhism and the tea ceremony. In raku firing, red-hot ceramics are removed from the kiln and placed into combustible materials, creating smoke and rapid cooling that produce crackled glazes and dramatic surface effects. The process embraces chance and imperfection—so much so that the word raku is often translated as “happiness in the accident.”
About the instructors
Andres Allik is an internationally active ceramic kiln builder. He builds electric kilns under the Kerako brand and has constructed raku kilns, wood-fired kilns, and special-purpose ceramic kilns. His kilns are used in the USA, Japan, and across Europe, including at Guldagergaard International Ceramic Research Center in Denmark.
Ingrid Allik is a ceramic artist and long-time lecturer at the Estonian Academy of Arts. She has exhibited internationally and has a special focus on raku ceramics. She is the author of the book “Raku. Formation and Experience” (2010), published in Estonian.
Workshop schedule
(All days from 10:00 to 18:00 with included lunch in between)
1. DAY 1, 4th of July
– Introduction (meeting with the instructors in the kiln yard)
– Building a raku kiln from prepared materials.
– Glazing the tea bowls.
(Working in 2 groups)
2. DAY 2, 5th of July
– Firing the tea bowls.
– Glazing for naked raku.
– Drinking macha tea.
(Working in 2 groups)
3. DAY 3, 6th of July
– Firing naked raku technique
– Post-processing of naked raku objects.
– Summary.
What you need to bring
Each participant may bring 3 pre-fired objects made from raku clay with chamotte (grog). Maximum size: Ø 10–15 cm, height up to 25 cm
The three objects should be:
– Tea bowl – chawan (diameter 10–12 cm)
– Simple decorative form with a smooth surface (e.g. terra sigillata finish)
– Free form (another bowl, a smoothly finished object, or a small sculpture)
Number of participants: 12
Level
The workshop is suitable for beginners, while those with previous experience are warmly encouraged to join and expand their knowledge by learning from the experienced instructors.
Price: 3900 DKK
Meals and Drinks
Guldagergaard will be offering breakfast(The first day) and lunch(All days) during the workshop (please let us know on the application form if you have any dietary restrictions). During the workshop, we will also provide coffee and tea.
Participants are otherwise responsible for providing their own meals. You are welcome to use the communal kitchen in the manor house.
Accommodation during the Workshop
Unfortunately, it is not possible to stay at Guldagergaard. However, we refer you to Hotel Postgården or Kaptajnhuset.
For any questions regarding the workshop and its content, please send an email to: oliver@ceramic.dk
