New Kiln on Campus
Dedication Ceremony held in honor of Alumnus Jim “Zulu” Zullinger, Class of 1970
University News | October 15, 2024
View photo gallery of Kiln Dedication
Thanks to a generous donation from alumnus Jim “Zulu” Zullinger, Class of 1970, Virginia Wesleyan University now features a state-of-the-art salt kiln, enhancing opportunities for students in ceramics and sculpture courses. The kiln was dedicated during a ceremony on October 5, during Homecoming and Family Weekend.
Philip Guilfoyle, professor of art and manager of the ceramic and sculpture studios at VWU, described the unique firing process of the new salt/soda kiln. “We introduce sodium into the kiln at the height of the firing, creating a vapor atmosphere that reacts with the silica in the clay, resulting in a glass-like glaze. This method can yield fascinating visual effects, especially with different glazes applied to the pottery.”
Originating in 14th-century Germany, the salt glaze technique became prominent in 18th and 19th-century America. Guilfoyle emphasized the uniqueness of the new kiln. “Once a salt/soda kiln, always a salt/soda kiln. This provides our students with an unparalleled avenue for finishing their work.”
The kiln’s first firing also included pieces crafted by Zullinger, who developed a passion for ceramics early in his career. Zullinger, who co-founded “Quiet Times Pottery” with a friend and ceramics professor post-retirement, shared his journey into ceramics.
“I got involved with ceramics, through a friendship with an art professor, when I started teaching at Shippensburg Universitsy in Pennsylvania in 1978. I taught first grade at the Lab school, then kindergarten and college classes. After 40 years, I retired in 2018 as associate professor of early childhood education.”
Zullinger grew up on Lake Taylor, just across from what is now the campus of Virginia Wesleyan University. He recalls rowing his boat over to what was then Smith Farm. His father was in the U.S. Navy and he moved from Norfolk at age 11 to live in places such as McLean, Virginia, and Long Beach, California. It was during a visit back to the area years later that he learned about the opening of Virginia Wesleyan.
Reflecting on his time as an undergraduate student at Virginia Wesleyan, Zullinger reminisced about his experiences and the lasting friendships he formed. He fondly recalled the camaraderie of his small class and the support of dedicated professors who influenced his life: Colonel Tucker, Mr. McIntyre, Dr. Mansfield, Dr. H. Rick Hyte, Howard Mast, and Dr. Harkey.
Grateful for Zullinger’s donation, Guilfoyle expressed enthusiasm about the kiln's future potential, noting plans for adjustments to improve firing consistency and sodium distribution. “Every firing presents a unique set of challenges and discoveries. The process of problem-solving is integral to creating art, and this new kiln will undoubtedly inspire our students to explore and innovate. Discovery keeps artists who are worth their salt coming back for more!”
For more insights and images from the dedication ceremony, check out the photo gallery.