Hi Susan on Long Island,
My college education in the 60's included ceramics, but no kiln education
either. When I started to teach, the secretary of the school taught me how
to use the kiln and the custodians turned the switches (the kiln was in the
boiler room.) As my schedule evolved into a one school setting, I started
to learn and do more of the kiln operation and passed this knowledge along
to all of the student teachers I had (33!) and gave my students regular
tours to the boiler room to see the kiln. They helped me load and unload the
kiln, too.
An advice to new owners of kilns, make sure you have a back-up of kiln
elements (if electric) and cones on hand and know that it may take a
while for someone to do needed maintenance. Treat those people well!
Ann-on-y-mouse in Columbus
Art Teacher, K-5, retired
I don't understand why art education for future art teachers does not
include teaching the methods of using the kiln! Is this a widespread
practice at the colleges today?
