Works created by RHS Ceramics students in wood kiln firing are featured today in downtown art showcase

Students from Rhinelander High School’s Ceramics 4 class recently participated in an intensive, hands-on wood kiln firing experience at Nicolet College on April 29. 

The collaborative effort, led by RHS instructor Josh Calhoun and Nicolet College art instructor Nate Wilson, provided students with a rare opportunity to engage in a traditional and highly labor-intensive ceramics process.

The wood firing marked the second consecutive year of partnership between Rhinelander High School and Nicolet College. 

Students began the experience with a glazing field trip at Nicolet’s ceramics studio, where they prepared their work for firing. The kiln was then loaded by instructors ahead of the main firing day.

A team of 10 participants, including students, instructors, and community members, worked together to bring the kiln to temperature. The firing process lasted approximately 19 hours, reaching around 2,350°F. 

The kiln was preheated overnight to approximately 1,000°F before students arrived at 8:30 a.m. to begin their shift. Over the course of the day, students split and hauled wood, loaded fireboxes, and managed hot coals — critical tasks that required coordination, endurance, and teamwork. The kiln reached its peak temperature at approximately 2:15 p.m.

“This process requires a dedicated crew and a strong understanding of timing and teamwork,” said instructor Josh Calhoun. “Our students played an essential role in making this firing successful.”

Community members John Langer and his student Kathy also contributed to the firing, bringing their own ceramic work and assisting throughout the process.

Students participating in the firing included Ace Towne, Caleb Luce, Claire Yunkers, Eric Berger, Crystal McLeod and Emma Houg, alongside instructor Josh Calhoun.

Many of the fired pieces are featured in the Senior Ceramics Art Showcase today, May 15, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. in downtown Rhinelander. The exhibition will highlight student work across several local businesses. Those businesses and the featured students are:

Forth Floral: Ace Towne, Eric Berger

Mel’s: Emma Houg, Claire Yunkers, Crystal McLeod

Morgue Coffee Co.: Skyler Dodge, Cloie Ring

The showcase offers the community an opportunity to view and celebrate the culmination of students’ work, including pieces created during the recent wood kiln firing.

For more information about the event or Rhinelander High School’s ceramics program, please contact RHS instructor Josh Calhoun at [email protected].