Raku is an ancient ceramic technique that was developed in 16th and 17th century Japan doe the production of tea bowls for the Tea Ceremony.

Contemporary Raku in North America has evolved using similar firing techniques. After the clay piece is thrown or hand-built, it is fired to the melting point of the glaze. While the pot is still hot, it is removed by hand from the kiln and plunged into sawdust, straw, or other reducing material. The sudden change in temperature crackles the glaze. During this process, flames, smoke and sparks envelope the work - occasionally the potter as well. Some pots are then quenched in water to capture beautiful iridescent colours caused by reduction. Pots are cooled and then scrubbed to remove soot.

Peter Powning’s pots combine the serenity of tradition with a dynamic and contemporary sense of design (text source: Powning Designs Ltd.)

Powning Designs is a family business, started in 1972 and run by Peter and his wife Beth Powning.

Apart from studio pottery, Peter Powning is a multidisciplinary artist whose career spans over five decades. A major 50-year retrospective of his career toured in 2022–2023. His work has won many national and international awards and can be found in numerous private and corporate collections. He has been exhibited widely nationally and internationally. His wife, Beth Powning, is an author and photographer.