DANVILLE, KY - Centre College begins the annual firing of its 40-foot anagama kiln Monday (April 12) on the Mack Jackson farm in Boyle County. Judith Pointer, visiting assistant professor of art, is coordinating this year's firing and will supervise students and other volunteers.

The firing is expected to continue through Thursday or Friday (April 15 and April 16), with students and volunteers working round the clock to keep the fire going at the high temperatures required for properly firing the ceramic pieces placed inside the kiln. The kiln temperature must be maintained around 2300 degrees Fahrenheit for a sustained period of time.

Students in the Centre art program constructed the kiln in 1993, based on a design popular in Japan at least 2,000 years ago. Art professor Steve Powell says the construction experience and subsequent firings have helped students grasp the basic elements of earth (clay), water and fire that are used in creating ceramic art. Each year, the kiln firing is open to potters and artists from through Kentucky and neighboring states. The kiln can accommodate nearly 100 ceramic pieces.

The kiln fire is a dramatic sight, especially after dark, and visitors are welcome. For more information and directions to the kiln, call Judith Pointer at 606-238-5469 or Lee Clements at 606 238-5424.

- end -

Communications Office
Centre College
600 W. Walnut Street
Danville, KY 40422