Oglethorpe’s studio art major has taken an exciting leap forward with the addition of a brand-new kiln, providing students and faculty with the proper equipment to extend their artistic capabilities. 

The kiln—a crucial tool for ceramics, pottery, and figure sculpting classes—offers endless creative possibilities. Currently, it’s used in “Intro to Figure Sculpting”, a course focused on exploring the human form through clay. Students sculpt figures from a live model, create narrative three-dimensional self-portraits, and build their own “personal monuments” in clay, diving deep into both technique and creativity.

Abigail Gregg, Visiting Assistant Professor of Studio Art, teaches the course and works closely with students to bring their visions to life. 

“In a stressful and increasingly screen-based world, sticking our hands in “mud” can be therapeutic and grounding,” says Gregg.

“The medium is incredibly elastic and can take the shape of pretty much anything. The art program is buzzing about the clay-based experience and knowledge we can now offer to our students.”

The kiln has sparked enthusiasm across campus for both students and faculty. Studio art student Eva Ware ’27 even launched a new club, “Kiln and Clay,” which attracted over 60 attendees from a wide range of majors at its first meeting. The club is already receiving positive feedback for offering a creative space for students to experiment with ceramics and pottery.

Looking ahead, there are plans underway to offer ceramics courses ranging from foundational skills to more experimental, conceptual work. Students can register for ART-290-002: Introduction to Ceramics for the spring semester starting in early November, once cleared by their Student Success advisor.