Kristin Thielking, associate professor of art and design at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP), has been awarded a $5,000 grant for the construction of a glass-working kiln for the College of Fine Arts and Communication. UWSP�s University Personnel Development Committee (UPDC) funded the grant.

According to Thielking, working in glass requires a special kiln and a computer controller that regulates the heat with a high level of accuracy.

"I need this piece of equipment in order to make the kind of art work that will enable me to compete on national and international levels," said Thielking. "Students and the community also will benefit as I will incorporate the kiln into my sculpture curriculum as well as offering its use for specialized workshops for the community."

Freshman Marcy Forman of Stevens Point will assist in the fabrication of the kiln.

Thielking plans to have several of her works entered in 2003 exhibitions including exhibits in New York, Chicago and the International Glass Conference in Seattle in June. The Kohler Company of Wisconsin and the Bullseye Glass Company of Portland, Ore., are also donating materials and money to this project.

Thielking received an M.F.A. in sculpture with an emphasis on glass from UW-Madison. She joined the UWSP faculty in 2001.

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tmiller/vc/Thielking grant