Ep 4. Naked Raku & a Floral Challenge

In episode 4 of season 4 of The Great Pottery Throw Down, the remaining 7 potters face two unique challenges that test their skills and creativity.

First up is the Naked Raku challenge, where the potters must create a beautiful and ultimately fragile piece that can withstand the intense heat of the kiln. This centuries-old Japanese technique involves placing a piece of pottery into a kiln and firing it until it reaches an extremely high temperature. The piece is then removed and placed into a metal container filled with sawdust or combustible material, which ignites and smolders to create unique patterns and colors on the surface of the pottery. The potters must carefully plan and execute their designs, taking into account the unpredictable nature of the raku firing process.

Next, the potters are tasked with creating a floral centerpiece that incorporates at least three different techniques. They must choose from a range of techniques, including carving, coiling, slab-building, throwing, and more. The potters must also impress judges Keith Brymer Jones and Richard Miller with their use of color, texture, and overall design as they bring their floral visions to life.

Throughout the episode, tensions run high as the potters struggle to create unique and stunning pieces, pushing themselves to their limits to stay in the competition. With only seven potters left, the stakes are higher than ever and the judges will be looking for the best of the best to move forward in the competition. Who will impress the judges and who will fall short? Tune in to find out in this episode of The Great Pottery Throw Down.