There is a new kiln in town. Trevor Youngberg, a professional ceramicist and high school teacher from Connecticut, spent last week working with the professors and students at Concordia to build a soda kiln for firing pottery.
"We are very excited about the new kiln," said Michael Strand, chair of the art department. "As an addition to our collection of kilns, it provides for a new firing technique that students and professors may experiment and create with."
Besides building the kiln, Youngberg spoke with classes, critiqued student portfolios and spent hours working in the studio at Concordia to throw a series of pots to be fired in the new kiln. The pots have been donated to the university by the artist to be sold at its annual December pottery sale.
"It is a joy to have Trevor around," said Strand. Youngberg and Strand worked together as ceramicists in the mid-1990s in a workshop at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. "He is a warm person, an excellent potter and an inspiring teacher."
Youngberg has been published multiple times in "Ceramics Monthly" and "Clay Times" and is well regarded for his research and development of low temperature glazes. He teaches courses in ceramics to more than 150 students at Trumbull High School in New Haven, Conn.
"I feel more satisfied because I teach," said Youngberg, "and my own work has continued to progress as I interact with my students. I am able to create art even as I teach."
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