Rich Holck will oversee and guide you through the hands-on process of loading, firing, unloading, cleaning, and maintaining a wood kiln. Learn how to build the fire and operate the kiln at each stage, read the atmosphere of the kiln to time your stokes, and how to place wood across the width of the firebox to maintain even heat. Gain understanding of how kiln oxygen levels may fluctuate and ways of controlling oxygen levels by adjusting dampers and air openings. Consider factors like the quantity of wood per stoke, stoking frequency, and the size and type of wood to use. When introducing salt into the chamber, discuss its effects on the pottery, kiln, and kiln furniture. During unloading, observe the results of your collective efforts on the finished works, and how the process details come together to shape the end result. 12X24X30 inches per share

Join kiln builder and ceramic artist Tyler Gulden for a rare hands-on opportunity to help construct a new soda kiln at Historic Yellow Springs. Participants will assist with the building process and will also have the opportunity to be included in the kiln’s inaugural firing.   The build will be physically demanding and on a tight schedule so while efforts will be made to instruct participants through hands on tasks, it may be necessary for participants to step back and observe certain aspects to ensure quality construction and completion within the given time frame.

Discussion will cover how soda kilns function, the introduction of soda ash into the kiln at high temperatures, and how vapor glazing interacts with clay surfaces to produce rich, atmospheric effects. This collaborative workshop offers valuable insight into both kiln construction, loading, and firing philosophy.

Includes build participation and one share in first firing.

Loading: Monday, August 24

Firing: Tuesday, August 25

Unloading: Friday, August 28