What is Onggi? Onggi has been popularized as Korea’s large fermentation vessels, but its meaning is not limited only to large vessels. We explore how Onggi refers to a way of working with certain types of clay and with certain firing styles. In this intensive demo session we uncover the deep roots of onggi in Korean society and its role as a vessel for humanity, both literally and figuratively. We begin by exploring how specific cultural, geographical, and culinary contexts informed the development of this incredible set of techniques, then dive right into making. As master Kwak Kyungtae forms an onggi start to finish, Marco Minetti will be translating the master’s commentary and explaining in intricate detail each part of the process. One of the beautiful aspects of Onggi is that each movement is informed and has been refined by generations of potters. As this knowledge has been carried forth, you will witness the same movements that were being used thousands of years ago. Attendees will leave with an understanding of: