Reid Flock Ceramics from 2011-2013.

For three years, I took part in roughly five firings at a New Hamburg, Ontario, kiln site designed by the very talented Cam Fisher. Placed on a beautiful rural Ontario farm setting, potter Chris Lass had a dream of developing an anagama / noborigama hybrid kiln. These pieces were from that brief period of reconstituting myself as a Canadian maker. Ironically, I didn't visit one historic wood kiln while in Japan. I did, however, assist Canadian expat potter Randy Woosley, whose generosity and friendly demeanour welcomed my company for a handful of firings at his Kasama studio. Back in Canada, I was invited to partake in five seven-day firings at a New Hamburg, Ontario, kiln called Lord Baltimore. These firings were team-oriented with as many as nine other makers, providing time for firing schedules during these arduous seven-day experiences. Leaders Cam Fisher and Chris Lass provided space within this gorgeous one-of-a-kind Canadian kiln, and the results were incredible. I cannot believe I took this long to find this incredibly rewarding avenue of ceramic engagement. While on route to a late night wood fire kiln shift, I came across bits of shredded tire along the road. It reminded me of how black is taken in by paper when applied with just the right brush… I stopped to collect some of the exploded tractor truck trailer tire to incorporate it with some of my teapots. Later, I realized this discarded rubber once had a precarious job and was left for dead. Now, its on top of the world, or at least a teapot.