featuring folk art in a form you haven't experienced, Raku!

Northeastern Folk Art is a collaboration of Erin McArthur and Mike Gillan.  Erin, a potter, had been interested in clay since high school and Mike was a stone carver and a chef by trade. Raku, a favourite technique of the two, has a crackly, coppery sheen. and is rooted in Ancient Japanese culture.  Northeastern Folk Art pulls together elements from NL culture, the sea, and land with porcelain and Raku works to create bowls, mugs, magnets, pins, and other ornaments.

Northeastern Folk Art Raku pieces are made in a multi-step process using two different kilns (one of which they made themselves out of an oil drum), a special reduction chamber, and a copper and cobalt glaze. fired to a temperature of 950°C, the flames and smoke work their magic on the pieces, creating an incredible finish.

Some of their bestsellers are their Raku whale tails, capelin and starfish – an homage to the grandeur and reticence of the sea. their products are available in gift shops and stores across the province, and can usually be found at the St. John's Farmers' Market.  the community is really important to their company - Erin says, "Our work draws from the community and gives back to it."   

Photos Courtesy of Graham Blair  

Check out our Facebook Live at the Quidi Vidi Village Plantation featuring Northeastern Folk Art.