What is Wood Fired Pottery?

Wood fired pottery is ceramic work that is fired in a kiln fueled by burning wood rather than gas or electricity. As the wood burns, ash, minerals, and flame interact directly with the clay surface, creating natural variations in color, texture, and pattern that cannot be fully controlled or replicated. All of the pieces seen here are either from the Ralph Howard Phillips Kiln or the Anagama Kiln that the Stokes' at Holley Hill Pottery built many years ago on their property. Over many days the buildup of molten ash forms a natural glaze, while the direction of the flame leaves distinctive markings called flashing. Because of these unpredictable, organic effects, each wood fired piece is unique, no two pieces will look the same.