Today on the Tales of a Red Clay Rambler Podcast I have a lecture from noted physicist and ceramic artist Hideo Mabuchi. He is currently working on a joint research project with Utah State University to better understand the behavior of iron in atmospheric kilns. In this lecture Hideo talks about the concept of vital materiality and his research into the unique colors that form when iron-bearing clays are reduction cooled. Hideo is a Professor of Applied Physics at Stanford University and was named a MacArthur Fellow in 2000 for his work using optical methods to understand quantum states. To find out more about Hideo visit www.firemouse.me. The lecture was given at the Cultural Confluence Wood Fire Symposium, held in Helena, MT in October 2018.   Hey Red Clay Rambler fans, I want to take a minute to talk to you about our sustaining membership program. As we head into 2019, I want to appeal to you directly to help us meet our new goal of having 120 patrons by April 1st. I’m asking you to make a $5 pledge today at patreon.com/redclayrambler. That’s only $1.25 per episode to help me document the field of ceramics. This new goal will help me record interviews with Canadian artists on my upcoming trip in April. If you prefer you can make a one-time donation through the Pay Pal portal at www.talesofaredclayrambler.com. If you have been thinking about getting involved don’t wait any longer. Every dollar helps, and no donation is too small. Thanks again for supporting the podcast!