For the 2023 edition of The Kiln Project and VIA, we asked our writers and authors what things weren’t being talked about: What is happening in the background? What goes unsaid in today’s society? What is “out of focus?" The result was an exciting collection of work, spanning from poetry and prose to art and documentaries. With over 30 submissions received, the caliber of work this year was unparalleled; the 16 chosen authors reflect the theme strongly, as well as demonstrate a command of voice and narrative. Most of all, each of these pieces feels incredibly personal; whether they describe a relationship or family dynamic, or recollect a formative moment through individual narrative, these authors have been open in their vulnerability, and it is our honor as readers to receive such work.
This year also saw an exciting growth in our editing team. 15 student editors dedicated their time in a busy Spring semester to review our submissions and provide detailed feedback. We can personally say that I was blown away by the responses from our editing team, and we’d like to thank: Aileen O’Connor, Alex Wentz, Ashley Bressendorf, Carmen Lo, Christian Rickert, Jenova Roetto, Johnny Prusak, Kaleigh Grommon, Keira Jensen, Madeleine Hutchings, Makayla Perkins, Olivia Grisch, Piper Fitzgerald, Ruth Bouman, and Paige Guillermo. This issue would not be complete without you.
We would also like to thank Dr. Devin Johnston, Dr. Paul Lynch, and Professor Ted Mathys for their help in ensuring the smooth running of the magazine, as well as the English Department for their continued support in this publication. Thank you to Jennifer Lowe of the Library Associates and Undergraduate Writing Award Committee for encouraging students to submit to The Kiln Project. Thank you to the Contemporary Art Museum and events coordinator Jenna McNeal for the wonderful communication and planning of our launch event. And, finally, thank you to Ted Ibur, director of St. Louis Literary Award Programming for his continued support in highlighting student voices at such events.
Thank you for taking the time to read our magazine, and be sure to check out the 2023 edition of VIA, our undergraduate research journal!