Art/Industry John Michael Kohler Arts Center
My visit to Kohler began with a fascinating three-hour tour of the factory, which included the cast iron, brass, and pottery facilities. Kohler’s production methods rely heavily on casting, and the range of materials—cast iron, ceramic, brass, and glass—speaks to the scale and sophistication of their operation.
Walking through the ceramic factory, where all their slip-cast products (toilets, urinals, sinks, etc.) are made, it became immediately clear how deep the expertise in mold-making and casting runs. One of the most striking parts of the tour was the kiln system. The main kiln resembles a massive shipping container, but inside, a large conveyor belt moves loaded shelves through a series of heat zones, gradually increasing in temperature until the work reaches cone 10. There are also several smaller, more traditional stationary kilns—all of which are available for resident artists to use. Most, however, take advantage of the large conveyor kiln due to its efficiency and scale.
The artist workspaces are located in a bright, open area of the factory filled with natural light from large windows. The studios are spacious and well-equipped, with ample shelving, large walls for inspiration materials or planning, desks, carts, and a wide array of slip casting tools and materials. At one point during the tour, I saw a resident using a crane to lift one half of a massive plaster mold—just one example of the kind of scale that’s possible here.
After the factory tour, I explored the Village of Kohler and stopped for a quick bite at the Horse and Plow restaurant, where I had the best pretzel and beer cheese I’ve ever tasted. The village is charming, with beautifully maintained historic buildings, upscale restaurants, a luxury spa, high-end hotels, and a golf course—all nestled in a quiet residential area.
Just 10 minutes away is Sheboygan, WI, located on the shores of Lake Michigan. It’s a small but lively town, home to the John Michael Kohler Arts Center. Despite its size, Sheboygan offers plenty to do, with welcoming locals and great food options.
The Arts/Industry residency at Kohler is a phenomenal opportunity for any artist looking to deepen their skills in mold making and slip casting, particularly at a larger scale. With access to industrial-level facilities and a team of knowledgeable technicians and staff, the residency opens up a world of possibilities that are rarely available to studio artists.
I highly recommend this program to artists who currently work with—or want to explore—casting and mold-making in their practice. It’s a unique blend of industry and artistry, and a truly valuable resource for professional growth.
