Raku Bear Pin

Barb Sachs Raku Pin

Barb Sachs draws inspiration from natural forms in the animal world.  She has been working for the past 23 years in the Hamilton/Dundas area with clay, using the Raku firing method.  Barb’s signature polar bears have been presented to Nelson Mandela, Oprah and Queen Elizabeth. 

Raku generally refers to a type of low-firing process that was inspired by traditional Japanese raku firing. Western-style raku usually involves removing pottery from the kiln while at bright red heat and placing it into containers with combustible materials. Once the materials ignite, the containers are closed.