It brings another level of understanding to the arts when students have this kind of hands on experience. Students in the class actually fabricated the kiln using specifications and techniques adapted by Beaulieu from a variety of sources. For most of the students involved in the course, it was a first exposure to masonry, metal working and other skills utilized in construction. I never would have done that under other circumstances. College officials believe that the new kiln is the only wood fired kiln at an educational institution in Northern Minnesota.
Plans call for it to be utilized in both regular ceramics courses and community-oriented workshops.
For at least one student the best is yet to come. She credits the enthusiasm of both the students and the faculty with the completion of the kiln. Beaulieu has plans to build at least one more kiln using brick from the Northshore Mining donation, further enriching the learning experience for LSC art students. The LSC Art department offers one of the most varied community college art programs in the state. Courses offered this fall include classes in sculpture, two-dimensional design, drawing, watercolor, painting, as well as, several ceramics courses.