Igniting Passion: A Deep Dive into Building a Small, Educational Wood Kiln

Hello fellow art enthusiasts! Susan here, your resident handicraft aficionado, back with an exciting topic that’s sure to spark your creative fire: building a small, instructional wood kiln.

There’s something truly magical about wood firing. The dance of flames, the unpredictable ash patterns, the earthy embrace of the kiln – it all culminates in unique, breathtaking pieces that tell a story. But the journey often begins with a yearning for hands-on learning, a desire to experience the entire process from clay to kiln and everything in between.

That’s where the “Manabigama” comes in, a beautifully designed small-scale wood kiln specifically crafted for education and exploration. Today, we’ll delve into the heart of this innovative kiln, exploring its design, benefits, and the inspiring story behind its creation.

The Genesis of the Manabigama: A Potter’s Vision

This inspiring story begins with John Thies, a seasoned ceramic artist with over three decades of experience building, firing, and maintaining large wood kilns. John’s passion for wood firing extended beyond his own practice; he found immense joy in sharing this ancient art form through workshops, guiding students through the intricacies of his impressive 300-cubic-foot crossdraft noborigama-style kiln.

As his students’ enthusiasm grew, so did their desire for more hands-on firing opportunities. John, ever the dedicated mentor, recognized the need for a smaller, more accessible kiln that would empower his students to take the reins and experience the entire wood firing process firsthand. Thus, the idea for the Manabigama was born.

Decoding the “Manabigama”: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

The name “Manabigama” itself reflects the kiln’s essence. Coined by Phil Berneburg, former technical editor for Ceramics Monthly, the name beautifully blends Japanese terms: “mana” (educational or learning), “bi” (a thing of beauty), and “gama” (kiln).

This small but mighty kiln represents a harmonious blend of traditional design and thoughtful modifications. Imagine a cross between an anagama and a groundhog kiln, a crossdraft tube ingeniously nestled into a hillside.

Here’s a closer look at its key features:

• Dimensions: The Manabigama boasts a cozy yet efficient interior, measuring 24 inches wide, 7 feet deep, and 40 inches high.
• Firebox: Positioned at the front, the firebox seamlessly integrates into the kiln’s interior. It measures a spacious 2 feet wide, 2 feet deep, and 30 inches high from the floor to the ware level.
• Air Intakes: Strategically placed air intakes in the front and sides enhance secondary air intake, facilitating the efficient burning of green or wet fuel.
• Chimney: Rising 12 feet high, the chimney measures 9 inches deep by 18 inches wide, effectively channeling smoke and heat.
• Shape: The elongated rectangular shape, featuring two straight 18-inch side walls and a gracefully curved catenary arch, provides ample headroom for loading and accommodates taller ceramic pieces.
• Ware Space: With approximately 24 cubic feet of ware space, the Manabigama offers ample room for educational firings.
• Loading Door: Located halfway down the front, the bricked-up door, including the stoke hole, allows for easy access and loading.

The Beauty of Simplicity: Efficiency and Versatility Combined

The Manabigama’s brilliance lies in its simplicity. It’s designed for efficiency and versatility, making it an ideal learning tool for aspiring wood firers.

• Fast Firing: Reaching Cone 10-12 in a mere eight hours, this kiln allows for quicker turnarounds and more frequent firing experiences.
• Flexible Firing Schedule: Prefer a longer firing cycle? No problem! The Manabigama can be fired for two to three days, allowing for greater ash buildup and unique aesthetic effects.
• Fuel Efficiency: This eco-conscious kiln consumes less than half a cord of wood per firing, minimizing both environmental impact and fuel costs.

Building the Manabigama: A Straightforward Approach

One of the most appealing aspects of the Manabigama is its straightforward construction. Built with a single layer of firebrick, a 2-inch insulating layer of mud and straw, and optional steel buttressing, this kiln is surprisingly accessible to build.

Remember to use kiln shelves and wadding when loading to prevent pots from sticking together during firing.

A Student’s Perspective: Embracing the Manabigama Experience

Mea Rhee, a passionate ceramic artist, had the incredible opportunity to be one of the first students to fire the Manabigama. Eager to take her wood firing skills to the next level, Mea embraced the challenge of managing the entire firing process independently.

Here’s what she loved about the experience:

• Complete Control: The Manabigama’s manageable size and straightforward design empowered Mea to oversee every aspect of the firing, from loading to unloading.
• Direct Flame Interaction: The absence of a physical barrier between the firebox and the ware allows for direct flame interaction, resulting in stunning ash effects that resonated with Mea’s artistic vision.
• Flexibility and Experimentation: The kiln’s adaptable firing schedule and responsive nature encouraged experimentation, fostering a deeper understanding of the wood firing process.

Beyond the Kiln: A Legacy of Learning and Inspiration

The Manabigama stands as a testament to John Thies’ dedication to education and his passion for sharing the art of wood firing. This innovative kiln has not only provided countless students with invaluable hands-on learning experiences but has also inspired a new generation of potters to embrace the magic of wood firing.

Resources for Your Wood Firing Journey:

• Ceramics Arts Network: https://ceramicartsnetwork.org/ – A treasure trove of information, articles, and resources for ceramic artists of all levels.
• The Art of Wood Firing: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Wood-Firing-Jack-Troy/dp/1574981193 – A comprehensive guide to the history, techniques, and aesthetics of wood firing.
• Local Pottery Studios: Connect with your local pottery community and explore opportunities to learn from experienced wood firers in your area.

As you embark on your own creative journey, remember that the most important tool you possess is your passion. Embrace the learning process, experiment fearlessly, and allow the transformative power of fire to guide your artistic expression.

Happy potting, everyone!

Warmly,

Susan