​Raku is a form of pottery developed in Japan in the 16th century in an endeavor to produce bowls to match the beauty and the gracefulness of their traditional green tea ceremony. The precise movements and slow pace of the ceremony are considered a form of meditation.

Calling for attainment of harmony, enlightenment, wisdom and compassion, the ritual is very spiritual. Enjoyment or Ease is the literal translation of the word Raku in Japanese.

The Raku firing is a very hands-on process. The pottery is light, delicate, and feels earthy to the touch. 

Raku ware is removed from the kiln with long-handled tongs while still glowing red-hot, and quickly placed inside a metal can with a combustible material. J. Davis Studio uses locally recycled newspapers.

After the paper ignites, the container is closed tightly which causes a reduction of air. The lack of oxygen and smoke react with the glaze creating an unpredictable one-of-a-kind surface. When the can has cooled for a few minutes, the lid is opened and a burst of water is sprayed on the pieces to quickly freeze the luminescent colors.

Living in Far West Texas all his life has had a profound effect on John Davis’ pottery. The rugged beauty and history of the peaceful Big Bend region helped inspire John’s raku line. Inspiration comes from both the mountainous beauty, and the rich history associated with the area.

Even though the raku firing process originated in Japan, the rustic look creates the essence of an ancient civilization, like an artifact unearthed from a primitive Indian camp ground around the Rio Grande riverbed.

Many raku pieces break during the thermal shock treatment, so each surviving raku ware is truly a treasure to be cherished.