Our Students
Student Involvement
The Department of Art is affiliated with several organizations and programs that enhance student learning:
- College Art Association of America (CAA)
- American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA)
- Jackson Union Sculpture Tour (JUST)
- Trinity Institute
- Society for Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI)
- Union University Painters Guild
- Union University Potters Guild
Recent Student Scholarship
The Art of Horsehair Raku Firing: An Exploration of History, Science, and Cultural Significance
Presenter: Helen Buller
Faculty Project Advisor: Christopher Nadaskay
"Raku" meaning "enjoyment" or "ease" was first started in Kyoto, Japan during the 16th century. This firing method was created by Chojiro during the Momoyama period where pots, specifically tea bowls, were hand built, making the pieces unique to the individual. Raku has been used since then in many different cultures and has evolved in the process. The process I am specifically studying is called "horse hair raku firing;" a process that emerged from Native American potters that has become important in their culture to honor both horses and people of their community, as well as creating decorative pieces. This research explores the significance of the raku firing method, the scientific aspects of burning oily horse hair on porous clay pot surfaces, how this has influenced contemporary art, and the aesthetic components of the work. I will explore how one of the most ancient ceramic firing techniques has changed over time and the direction firing that horse hair has gone.