We are delighted to announce that Keane is currently accepting submissions and expressions of interest for sponsorship and contribution opportunities in 2024 via our new portal. Whether you're a seasoned organizer or an emerging artist, if you're planning an event, collection, exhibit, or show created with Keane clay, we invite you to apply for our support through our official portal.
At Keane Ceramics, we are passionate about fostering creativity and have supported diverse talents and project within the ceramic community for decades. Our sponsorships are open to a range of initiatives, including exhibitions, shows, arts projects, and personal collections. If your project involves using Keane clay and is scheduled for this year then we ask that all submissions are made by March 31st 2024.
Silica has been a long-standing health hazard since stone masonry and ceramics began. The risk arises through the inhalation of dust containing crystalline silica. Silica remains an important risk factor for respiratory disease.
Long term exposure to respirable silica dust may cause lung disease, commonly referred to as Silicosis.
Keane Ceramics is continuously reviewing and updating their safety information in line with Australian WHS Legislation and Regulations, and we have our Safety Data Sheets available on our website.
We recommend your workplace is using a combination of the “hierarchy of control measures” in managing silica dust, such as
Do not eat or drink whilst working.
Wash your hands thoroughly before eating and going to the bathroom.
There should be adequate ventilation in line with WHS legislations and when possible, all dusty work, including the spraying and mixing of glazes and slips, should be done in a suitable dust extraction compartment with filtered exhausts to the outside atmosphere.
Clean as you go (before the clay becomes dry and dusty) we advise to regularly wipe down work benches with a wet sponge.
Working surfaces, walls and floors should be thoroughly cleaned after use preferably by a wet method or with an industrial vacuum unit that meets Australian safety standards.
Wear suitable PPE, preferably Australian Standard approved when handling clay dust. We recommend P2 Mask, gloves and apron.
The following materials need particular care when handling: barium carbonate, silica and powdered raw materials in particular silica, feldspars, copper carbonate, oxides, lead bearing glazes and all on-glaze colours.
When leaving the studio always wash your hands
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Join us at the Sydney Ceramics Market, a fast growing collective of local artists and makers in the thriving Sydney, NSW pottery scene. Over the past two decades, Sydney has witnessed a resurgence of creativity in clay-based art, with a new wave of artists joining established pro's in functional pottery. Sydney Ceramics Market launched with an overwhelming response which inspired founders Sami and Mel to expand the space and location this year to the renown Carriage Works in the cities Inner West featuring over 90 makers.
This year Babette, Maddy and the Team will exhibit a tribute to clay in alignment to the theme at this years Sydney Craft Week; TIME as well as launching our clay sample boxes. This event is free to attend.
Next we head south to feature at one of Melbourne's fastest growing events on October 28th and 29th. Launched in 2019 as a Smith Street, Collingwood pop-up, Three Day Clay unites Melbourne's clay community, spotlighting diverse techniques with this dynamic medium. Founded by ceramicists Kelly Murphy, Kate Bowman, and Kate Brouwer, the initiative now encompasses unique markets, exhibitions, and retail ventures now located at the iconic Brunswick Town Hall.
Across all formats, the heart of each event remains constant: a platform for both emerging and established artists. This year we will be attending as the Major sponsor along with Babette Keane and Maddyson Hatton at the forefront of the action, hosting insightful Q&A sessions that offer a wealth of knowledge on the medium of clay.
Whether you're seeking technical advice or creative inspiration, these sessions are renowned to be invaluable for those seeking to expand their knowledge on MAKING WITH KEANE.
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For the entire month of July, we are thrilled to unveil the new branding for our clay, bags, and packaging across our social channels! These stunning creations took 12 months to develop, involving extensive design, revisions, and compliance. We can't wait to share the fresh identities of Keane Ceramics with you.
Our new bag range has been meticulously designed to accommodate our new 10kg sizing throughout, ensuring optimal clay protection. Moreover, we recognize that they will also enhance the aesthetic of your studios and retail spaces when stacked together.
Why Re-Brand?
Keane Ceramics stands at the forefront of innovation in our industry, and we are excited to launch the labor of love behind rebranding our packaging. This transformation is not merely a cosmetic change; it symbolizes our commitment to pioneering positive change and setting new standards for pottery and ceramics in Australia. Our new packaging also serves as a testament to our dedication to aligning with Australian industry standards and sustainable practices. We take pride in our compliance with health and safety standards, showcased in a beautiful new design range.
By reimagining Keane Ceramics' visual identity, we are not only revitalizing our appearance but also breathing new life into the essence of our brand, which you have come to cherish as creators of Australia's favorite clay. We hope you will adore it as much as we do.
If you are one of our Wholesale, Trade, or Trade Premium customers, we have assembled a Brand Kit for you to download, allowing you to replace your website and digital collateral with our new assets. If you have not yet received your email containing the download link, please reach out to our Head of Brand & Marketing, Emma, at emma@keaneceramics.com.au.
So, if you have photographs of our new clays stacked in your studio, we would be delighted if you could share them with us by tagging @keaneceramics on social media.
What Are Mid Fire Clays?
Mid Fire Clays are a type of pottery clay that are fired to a temperature range of 1180-1240°C. They are gaining popularity among potters because they achieve the sought after qualities in stoneware of strength, durability and finish when fired to the lower temperatures of Mid Fire. This is also better for the kiln element's longevity and can therefore be cost effective on maintenance and energy bills. There is an ever growing and diverse range of manufactured Mid Fire glazes that are readily available to use on Keane Ceramics range of Mid Fire clays. At Keane Ceramics, we offer the most extensive collection of Australian Mid Fire Clays, each with unique characteristics that make them perfect for a wide range of making applications.
Mid Fire Black
Mid Fire Black is a standout clay in our Mid Fire Family. It is not only the only true black clay made in Australia, but it is also the only one of its kind without manganese dioxide, making it not only safe to handle but also food-safe.
Mid Fire Black is smooth and fine, and it is commonly mistaken for being a member of the Porcelain family. Its smooth fine body means it’s like silk to throw with.
Mid Fire Black clay is also renowned for intricate detail in hand-building and small to medium scale sculptural pieces.
BUY MID FIRE BLACK HERE
Dark Matter
Born in 2022, Dark Matter is the newest addition to our Mid Fire Family. Due to the success and adoration of our Mid Fire Black, we acknowledged the demand for a grogged textural option.
Dark Matter has been described to sit halfway between White Raku and Special K in texture, offering a wider range of capabilities for the hand building and throwing process.
Red Earth
Red Earth is our new and very popular addition to the Mid Fire Family. Inspired by the rich colour palette of the rocks and sands of central Australia, Red Earth clay is a smooth clay body that targets both throwers and hand formers working with utilitarian scale functional objects.
Red Earth is a stand out clay for anyone who is looking to bring some warmth to the table.
Mid Fire 33
Mid Fire 33 made its mark as the most popular of the Mid Fire family due to its versatility and easy-going nature. Born from the demand for a speckled body that mimicked the characteristics of our Stoneware 33 heritage formula.
Throwing with Mid Fire 33 is a dream. Being smooth, plastic and easy to handle, it's a popular starting point for newbies through to advanced potters.
Mid Fire 33 Warm
Mid Fire 33 Warm is everything you love about Mid Fire 33, but with a distinct warm tone. It has a touch of fine grog, which also adds to its visual texture and extends the scale of work that can be made with it.
The richness in texture and warmth of this body is highlighted when contrasting glaze colours are used.
Mid Fire 6 White
Mid Fire 6 White is smooth white plastic clay. It's versatile, great for domestic ware and small to medium-sized thrown and hand-built wares.
Many potters use it as a slip to apply to other Mid Fire clays where a white base is required.
Mid Fire 6 Speckled
Mid Fire 6 Speckled is a smooth, white plastic body. The sibling of Mid Fire 6 with the addition of iron specks for visual texture. Great for domestic ware and small to medium-sized hand-building and throwing. Although it's most loved for wheel throwing because of its smooth composition, potters love to show its natural speckle and textured body as finished works with either clear or no glaze.
If you want to deepen your knowledge on the characteristics of working with this beautiful medium, then see our MAKING WITH KEANE class that explores the fundamentals of our entire range.
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A Colorful Connection to Central Australia
Red Earth clay is a captivating addition to the Mid Fire Family, capturing the essence of the rich color palette found in the rocks and sands of central Australia. This infusion of natural beauty into the clay's character makes it stand out among our red clays. The earthy red and warm brown tones it offers are reminiscent of the stunning landscapes that inspired its creation by Christopher James in 2021.
Versatile for Both Throwers and Slab Formers
One of the standout features of Red Earth clay is its versatility, catering to both throwers and slab formers. Artists working on utilitarian scale functional objects can seamlessly mold this clay into their envisioned designs. Whether you're crafting delicate pieces on a wheel or shaping slabs for distinctive creations, Red Earth clay provides the ideal consistency and pliability to bring your artistic visions to life.
Infusing Warmth to the Table
Potters who seek to infuse a touch of warmth and vibrancy into their pieces find Red Earth clay to be the perfect medium. Its unique ability to deepen in color depending on the firing cone brings a dynamic aspect to the creative process. When fired to Cone 6, the clay transforms into a rich brown earth tone, while at Cone 5, it retains its captivating red hues. This dynamic color transformation allows potters to play with a spectrum of shades, adding depth and personality to their work.
A Canvas for Creativity
Red Earth clay fits most mid fire commercial glazes. Whether your preferences lean toward bright and lively shades or the subtle elegance of earth tones, this clay provides an exquisite canvas. Many artists choose to leave its natural body exposed, showcasing the stunning burnt red tones that are uniquely its own. The interplay between the clay's natural hue and the glaze's transformative properties results in pieces that tell stories of warmth, nature, and creativity.
From Sunburnt Orange to Earthy Red
Red Earth clay's journey begins with a raw body that exudes a warm, sunburnt orange hue. As it progresses through the firing stages, it undergoes a fascinating transformation. At bisque firing, it retains its sun-kissed orange shades, only to deepen into that renown earthy red at glaze temperatures. This metamorphosis is a testament to the clay's inherent ability to surprise and delight artists at every step of the making process.
Finer Texture and Kindred Connections
Unlike its red counterparts, Red Earth clay doesn't contain added grog. This attribute endows it with a refined and smoother texture, offering a tactile experience that's both enjoyable and distinct. For those who appreciate the clay's earthy red tones but desire more grog at higher firing temperatures, its closest relative is Red Terracotta – a connection that underscores the dynamic spectrum of artistic possibilities within the realm of ceramics.
Image Credit: Sharyn Vam Ceramics
As our Australian pottery scene continues to flourish, Red Earth clay stands as a testament to the beauty and creativity that emerge when nature's palette comes to life at the potter's wheel.
]]>Launching new additions to our clay families is always an exciting moment. One such addition that has been causing a stir among potters and sculptural artists is Dark Matter, born in 2022 as part of the Mid Fire Family formulated by Christopher James. With its unique properties and versatility, Dark Matter is quickly becoming a favorite choice for those seeking a textural alternative to Mid Fire Black with a little more strength and grit.
Here is a brief snapshot of Dark Matter and why it has captured the hearts of many potters of all skill levels.
Dark Matter's raw body is a dark chocolate pigment, which transforms into a captivating charcoal black with white flecks when fired at glaze temperature. This natural transformation makes it a popular choice for potters who appreciate the dramatic effect of exposing the unglazed body's texture and color. The resulting visual appeal is truly mesmerizing, adding depth and intrigue to any pottery creation.
One of the most significant advantages of Dark Matter is its versatility. Positioned between White Raku and Special K in terms of texture, this clay offers a wider range of possibilities for both hand building and throwing techniques. Potters and sculptural artists are drawn to Dark Matter's ability to provide more strength and grit, making it an excellent choice for larger walls and throws.
Despite its textural nature, Dark Matter displays a remarkable glaze fit. It harmonizes well with a broad range of commercial and homemade glazes, making it an adaptable choice for various artistic styles and preferences. However, it is essential to note that, similar to its sibling clay, Mid Fire Black, caution should be exercised when selecting clear glazes. It is advisable to avoid the use of zinc in any clear glaze to ensure optimal results.
If you are already familiar with the Mid Fire Black clay, Dark Matter is its closest sibling, further expanding the family's artistic possibilities. As Australia's only pure black clay, this duo of clays is perfect for creating moody and dramatic pottery pieces. Whether you seek to add depth to your sculptures or evoke a sense of mystery in your vessels, the combination of Mid Fire Black and Dark Matter offers an unparalleled opportunity for artistic expression.
Its specifications are Shrinkage 12.5% and Absorption rate 1.54% with a Wet to Dry Shrinkage 4.5% and currently comes in 10kg bags.
If you want to deepen your knowledge on the aesthetics and technical characteristics of working with this beautiful medium, see our MAKING WITH KEANE class, Australia’s first class dedicated to the love of clay.
Image Credit: Chef Jason Roberts
]]>As a potter, finding the perfect clay body can be challenging. You want a clay that is easy to work with, offers intricate detail, and is safe to handle and use. This is why Mid Fire Black is one of Australia's favorite clays for intermediate and skilled potters.
Mid Fire Black clay stands out in the Mid Fire family, not only because it is the only true black clay made in Australia, but also because it is free from manganese dioxide, making it safe to handle and food safe. Its smooth, fine body is commonly mistaken for being a member of the Porcelain family, and it is like silk to throw with.
This clay is perfect for hand-building and sculptural pieces, offering intricate detail that is difficult to achieve with other clays. And like its Mid Fire sibling, Dark Matter, Mid Fire Black clay offers an element of surprise with glaze. The strong pigment of Mid Fire Black clay can produce surprisingly different results than its lighter family members when paired with glazes.
When it comes to glazing Mid Fire Black clay, it is essential to choose the right clear glaze. Not all clear glazes can handle its pure black pigment. For a crystal clear finish, it is best to avoid glazes that contain Zinc. We suggest using the AMACO High Fire Sahara Zinc Free glaze to achieve the best results.
For anyone who has noticed their piece turn brown after its glaze fire, this is most commonly due to the incompatible glaze choice.
Mid Fire Black clay was years in the making, with a focus on achieving the highest standard of material safety. This clay contains no manganese dioxide, allowing potters to explore all forms of functional ware without worry.
Mid Fire Black clay has a shrinkage of 13% and absorption of 1.5%, with wet to dry shrinkage at 5-6%. And if you're looking for a dark body with more visual and physical texture, you can meet its close relative in the Mid Fire family, Dark Matter, born in 2022.
In conclusion, Mid Fire Black clay is a unique and safe option for potters looking for a true black clay with a smooth, fine body and intricate detail. Pair it with the right zinc free glaze for a dramatic contrast, and explore all forms of functional ware with confidence.
Header Image: Credit Jo Norton @thrownbyjo
If you want to deepen your knowledge about clay. Head over to learn more about our classes dedicated to the love of clay.
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NSW: Central Coast Sunday 30th April 11am-1pm at our flagship store followed by a two-course dining experience at Little Miss Mezza.
QLD: The HOTA, Gold Coast Sunday May 7th 11am-1pm followed by a High Tea at Palette Restaurant at Home of the Arts.
VIC: Mornington Peninsula Sunday 21st May 11am-1pm at Stoker Studios followed by a three-course shared plate menu dining experience at Barmah Winery.
Course Prerequisites:
We suggest those who have already worked with and experimented with pottery or ceramic forms as a minimum level of experience will get the most out of this course.
Your Teachers:
Babette Keane - Director of Keane Ceramics Babette Keane, a renowned figure in the ceramics industry, was born into a family immersed in the art of ceramics. As the daughter of Keane Ceramics Founders, Roger and Margaret Keane, she grew up with a studio attached to her home, where she observed her mother create domestic wares at scale while her father established a successful career as a sculptural artist and formulator. |
Babette was present during the inception of Keane Ceramics in the late 70s, where her passion for the art form blossomed..
In the early 90s, Babette joined the ranks of Keane Ceramics, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge gained from her studies in ceramics, as well as her experience in retail and fashion. Over the past 30 years, she has dedicated herself to the business of clay, accumulating a wealth of expertise and insights that have become invaluable to the industry. With her lifelong connection to Keane Clay, Babette now offers her invaluable insight into Australia's favorite clay. She is a respected figure in the ceramics community and a true pioneer in the art of ceramics, providing unparalleled knowledge and expertise to the industry.
Maddyson Hatton is a graduate of Newcastle university, receiving her Bachelor's Degree in Fine Art (Honors) with a major in ceramics. Maddyson has spent the past 10 years developing her knowledge in the industry, with her own practice in ceramics. Maddyson has worked for Newcastle University as a technical officer and has since further developed her clay knowledge at Keane Ceramics as Head of Operations.
Enrollment:
Enrollment for Making with Keane are limited, so interested participants are encouraged to register early to secure their spot. Buy your ticket below to enroll.
Exclusive Gift
Upon arrival each ticket holder will be gifted a custom MAKING WITH KEANE denim pottery apron made exclusively for the event. For attendees for collection on the day only. These items cannot be sold or shipping separately.
Tickets: $125 for the course plus the two or three course lunch option that varies with your location.