The technique of pit-firing employs clay as a canvas for burning salts, sulfates, and sawdust.  The intentional loading of the “pit,” from the quantity of chemicals used to the coarseness of the sawdust that fuels the fire, lays the groundwork for the spontaneous interaction of chemicals and clay over the course of the firing.  The patterning and range of colors (from yellow, green and red to blues and purples) on the finished piece reflect the history of play between chemicals, heat, clay, and chance.