Raku is an approach to pottery
which is an exciting departure from the usual functional approach we are most familiar with.
We take the work from the kiln when it is red hot and quench it rapidly, usually in material which is easily combustible. Sawdust, leaves, straw, or newspaper will all serve and the result is a smoke which influences the look of the glaze and even penetrates the clay body of the pot. The results can be spectacular. To see movie check this link....

John and Warren Andrade
Head in Flames
Pot from the kiln
Taking a sculpture head from the kiln
Checing the kiln
Raku fired heads Award ceremony
Raku jar
Glowing sculpture head