265-4 Caves, Clay, and Communication: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Connecting Art and Science

Session: New Frontiers in Cave and Karst Science (Posters)

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Art is often used as an intersection between self-expression and understanding. By using interdisciplinary skillsets, we are able to blend science and art into a tool for science education. Based in Southwest Virginia, Natural Tunnel State Park is home to several karst systems such as the “Marvel in Stone” itself, the Natural Tunnel, and other wild caves on the property open for park guests to enjoy during guided tours. These caves, formed in the Valley and Ridge Province in the central Appalachian Mountains, hold large sedimentary clay deposits throughout these karst systems. As interest in ecotourism increases in the area, the park and caves have become popular destinations, which also provides an opportunity to educate guests about the local geology and karst environments. Using clay from these educational cave tours to produce pottery creates an inclusive opportunity for all guests to learn about karst ecosystems. 

In this project, we are locating and processing natural clay deposits from the Natural Tunnel caves in a multi-step process to allow the material to withstand both the bisque and vitrification processes. Using processes dating back to the Paleolithic era up to modern-day ceramic techniques, the collection, processing, and creation of the pottery will provide educational and outreach opportunities for The University of Virginia’s College at Wise Natural Sciences students and Art students, as well as for Natural Tunnel State Park guests. 

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 57, No. 6, 2025

doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-11108

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