Course Description
This course is designed for ceramics majors and will cover the history, design, and construction of a variety of kilns.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students will be required to undertake intensive
technical and process investigations in developing clay bodies
and various glaze palettes appropriate to individual work and
firing techniques.
Athena Title
KILN CONSTRUCTION
Prerequisite
ARST 2500
Corequisite
ARST 3500 and ARST 4500
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
To introduce students to the theory, design, and construction of high temperature, gas fired stoneware and atmospheric kilns (salt & soda kilns). Students will design and build a 16 cubic foot soda/salt kiln as part of the class. The class will culminate with the students making and firing work in the kiln. Assessment of overall accomplishments is formulated during intense discussion at studio critiques occurring regularly throughout the semester. Students and instructor interact as a group during these critiques.
Topical Outline
1. The history of kilns (early types and designs). 2. Types of contemporary kilns (caternary arch, sprung arch, ana-gama, groundhog, etc.). 3. Constructing the arch support. 4. Design of various floor plans, burner systems, chimney configurations, door configurations, etc. 5. Firing methods and procedures. 6. Kiln stacking (kiln furniture use and maintenance.