Whistle Stop ClayWorks continues their Christmas in Loveland tradition

 

5^th Annual Raku Firing and Ornament Painting

 

 

Loveland, Ohio - Last year Whistle Stop ClayWorks offered their first commemorative ornament in a train ornament series. “We introduce a new ornament each December during the Christmas in Loveland celebration. The train series, which celebrates Loveland’s rich railway

You can paint a free ornament, watch the fiery action while warming up at the blazing bonfire

history, is fun for both adults and children to collect“, said Kay Bolin O’Grady, co-owner. “2013 featured the train engine. This year we will have the boxcar available and next year’s ornament will be the caboose.”

Also, ClayWorks started the "glaze your own" complimentary handmade ornament in 2010 during their first year of operation. The first year 150 ornaments were distributed to patrons, that number will increase to 700 ornaments for 2014.

“Please come and take part in the painting, fire and fun. You can paint a free ornament, watch the fiery action while warming up at the blazing bonfire, or relax inside the studio and gallery, said Bolin O’Grady. “Remember to come early as there are a limited number of ornaments, and when they’re gone, they’re gone.” She recommends you come between 3:30 and 5:30 PM to glaze your ornament and insure its spot in the kiln.”

Tim O’Grady, co-owner of ClayWorks, said, “Raku is a unique rapid and spontaneous method of glazing and firing clay which was created in Japan in the 16th century.” The ceramic work is quickly heated to 1820°F in about 45 minutes, removed glowing-red with tongs and placed in a barrel of combustibles such as paper or sawdust. “The pieces are then quenched in water and cleaned to expose the beautiful results of the process. Who can resist seeing this first hand?”, said Tim  O’Grady

“There will also be plenty of one of kind handmade gifts, by local clay artists, in the gallery and gift certificates are also available for the budding artist on your list, “ said Kay Bolin O’Grady.

For more information, call 513-683-CLAY (2529) or visit website .

Christmas in Loveland is Saturday, December 13th, 4 until 9 PM and the estimated times for unloading the kilns are: 5:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:00, 7:30 and 8:00 PM.