The Art Department at Dixie State University blazes a new trail as it adds a “train kiln,” named to reflect its form, to its creative arsenal. The train-kiln resembles the front of a traditional steam locomotive. This innovative wood-fired kiln is modern in design but achieves the same aesthetic firing qualities as the ancient Japanese Anagama kiln, a 5th century “cave” kiln, in which the ash from the wood actually glazes the pottery. The process is arduous and time consuming, but every piece comes out with a uniquely distinct design that makes these pieces highly coveted. The train kiln not only benefits DSU, but it also benefits the art students who get to make these timeless pieces.
The Train Kiln: Raw, Ancient, and Authentic
The Train Kiln: Raw, Ancient, and Authentic
By Trissie Cox
Utah Tech University is one of only two universities in Utah that uses the train kiln method of pottery making. Glen Blakley, Professor of Ceramics at DSU, says that this mode of pottery making will be added to the program and will have a “big impact on the ceramic program for years to come.”
The exclusive experience of making such an exceptional piece of pottery gives students a sense of accomplishment, appreciation, and pride as they work around the clock for days to create something raw, ancient, and authentic. The experience teaches students about culture, provides a bond- ing experience, and adds an impressive highlight on their résumés or in their portfolios.
Blakley described the experience as “a fantasy; much like going to Disneyland for the first time.” He goes on to say that “the students camped out for the 37 hours it took to fire the pottery and made s’mores by the fire light. Working together and being successful in this endeavor creates a memory to last a lifetime.”