The ceramic program has access to a large wood-fired Anagama kiln, the kiln is one the largest of its kind in South Carolina. Lovingly referred to as the "Vatagama" (after its creator, professor emeritus and former department chair, Mike Vatalaro), the kiln is based on the ancient Japanese Anagama design. The 200 cubic foot kiln attracts ceramic artists from all over the region, and its collaborative firing is a celebrated event. It is located in a wooded location near campus and the adjacent Lake Hartwell.
