Saturdays of Creation | Dark Smoke of Raku
Oct 17, 2025
Raku | When Earth, Fire, and Tea Unite
In an event where materials, hands, and flame converge, Atelier de l'Olivier and Maison NANA1807 invite you to a unique Saturday of creation. The fascinating Raku technique unfolds under the sign of fire and dark harmonies.
An Event to Celebrate the Arts and Crafts
This event is part of the Saturdays of Creation , produced by the Atelier de l'Olivier in partnership with Maison NANA1807. Their objective: to promote the Arts and Crafts within the Galerie de l'Olivier, a setting for transmission and creativity in Mehun-sur-Yèvre.
The opening will take place on Friday, November 14th at 6 pm, in the presence of ceramicist Bénédicte Montier , Master Craftswoman and guest of honor for this edition. The exhibition will run from Saturday, November 15th to January 4th, offering seven weeks of immersion in the world of fire and earth.
Bénédicte Montier | Ceramicist and Designer
An artist of gesture and transformation, Bénédicte Montier shapes the earth with the poetry of silence. Trained in visual arts and deeply connected to nature, she practices Raku , a Japanese technique where the ceramic is removed from the kiln while still glowing and then plunged into smoke, creating cracks and unpredictable hues.
Each piece bears witness to a moment suspended between fragility and the power of fire, a unique signature of his work where chance becomes aesthetic.
The Olive Tree Workshop and Marie Teyssou
Under the guidance of Marie Teyssou, Master Upholsterer and founder, the Atelier de l'Olivier is a vibrant center for the Arts and Crafts. Wood, wool, and clay interact in a space designed for exchange and transmission.
Marie Teyssou initiated the Saturdays of Creation to bring together artisans, artists and visitors, offering a sensitive and refined experience, where contemplation blends with creative practice.
Fire, Matter, and Soul
Raku teaches patience and letting go. Fire becomes the master of chance, creating cracks and smoky nuances, resulting in unique pieces. This aesthetic of imperfection appeals to both artisans and art lovers.
Guided by Bénédicte Montier, participants discover an alchemy where fire and matter tell a story in each piece.
Black Teas in the Spotlight with Maison NANA1807
Echoing the theme of fire, Maison NANA1807 offers tasting sessions and a mini-workshop on Mintealogy . The Mogador, Aïssa, and Christmas Tea black teas offer an intense aromatic experience that is both comforting and refined.
This sensory exploration engages in a dialogue with Raku, creating a harmony between the warmth of the earth and that of the tea.
Program for Saturday, November 15th
10:00 AM – Introduction to the Raku technique
11:00 AM – Massage session led by Bénédicte Montier
2:00 PM – Baking and unveiling of the pieces
3:00 PM – Black tea tasting (Mogador, Aïssa, Christmas Tea)
4:00 PM – Mini-workshop on Mintealogy
Every moment is designed to blend creativity, contemplation and sharing within the Galerie de l'Olivier.
Invitation to Creation
Saturday, November 15th will be a celebration of fire and the hand. The Saturdays of Creation embody the vision of Atelier de l'Olivier and Maison NANA1807: to transmit the art, patience, and beauty of the craft.
Opening reception Friday 14 November at 6pm, Saturday 15 November from 10am to 6pm.
Galerie de l'Olivier – 106 rue Jeanne d’Arc, Mehun-sur-Yèvre
