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Raku pottery and painting in a picturesque park

The Raku in the Valley, presented by Chilliwack Community Arts Council in partnership with Rainforest Pottery, is May 23 in Thompson Park
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The interaction of fire

It's a rare chance to try out a pottery technique known as Raku that will yield some unique pieces.

The Raku in the Valley, presented by Chilliwack Community Arts Council in partnership with Rainforest Pottery, is set for Saturday, May 23 in Thompson Park, along with Paint the Park.

Artistic activities and exhibits will be featured all day long in the park on Chilliwack Lake Road, with live music by Tractorgrease Cafe, Artisans in the Park and a BBQ hosted by the Chilliwack River Valley Fire Department.

Anyone who likes pottery will adore Raku. Based on an ancient Japanese technique, Raku pottery is fired in the open air with a special kiln. The interaction of fire, smoke, water and glaze produces brilliant effects ranging from crackled or smoky patterns to a glowing metallic finish. Due to the process and fragility, Raku pottery is usually much more expensive than other types.

Pre-registration of $10 per pot can be done through the Arts Council by phone (604)769-2787 or at The Art Room #20-5725 Vedder Rd. Chilliwack. Register today to avoid disappointment as there is a limited number of pots available!

Thompson Park is a beautiful setting for an outdoor market. Bring shopping bags and cash, since there's no wifi to check out the varied Artisans in the Park and their intriguing displays. A gently juried pop-up market will be on-site featuring a lovely selection of hand-made goods created by local artists and artisans. Artisans include jewellery designers, soap makers and even a Henna artist! Capture the scene with Paint the Park as visual artists of all levels and backgrounds, are invited to literally paint the park. Bring paints, brushes, pens, inks and find a nice spot in the park to paint, draw or sculpt your surroundings. Artists aged 12+ are invited to participate in this interactive portion of the day’s events. Pre-registration is open by calling, or showing up in person at the Art Room #20-5725 Vedder Rd. Event day registration is limited and payment will only be received in cash. For more details such as check in time, fees, people’s choice voting, artwork purchase, etc. please visit their website chilliwackartscouncil.

Raku In The Valley Pottery Workshop & Paint The Park are May 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Thompson Park on Chilliwack Lake Road. For more details, call the Arts Council at 604.769.2787.



Jennifer Feinberg

About the Author: Jennifer Feinberg

I have been a Chilliwack Progress reporter for 20+ years, covering the arts, city hall, as well as Indigenous, and climate change stories.
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