In my “ALTERNATE FIRING” series, I am exploring the possibilities of incorporating other natural materials such as reeds, pine needles, sea shells and beads into my work. Creating unique pieces such as saggar ware also interests me. A Saggar is an enclosed chamber where the vessel is placed. Various combustibles are added to the chamber. The saggar is then placed in a Raku kiln and fired at 1200 to 1700 degrees. The combustibles “fume” onto the vessel to form patterns and a variety on colors. Since the combination of materials and firing temperature vary, no two vessels are alike. There is an element of unknown results that happen with every firing, which is both surprising and often intriguing.