Alfred University will host its Fall 2026 Ring of Fire— an immersive, high-energy celebration of flame-based art and community—on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 4-8 p.m. Set against the backdrop of Alfred’s renowned art and engineering facilities, the Ring of Fire invites visitors into a world where fire is not just a spectacle, but a tool for transformation.
The Ring of Fire, which is student driven and organized, will be held in Cushing Alley, between Harder Hall and the Foundry/New York State College of Ceramics Physical Plant facilities. Students, faculty, and technicians bring creative processes to life through live demonstrations in iron and aluminum casting, glass blowing, glass casting, neon bending, blacksmithing, raku demonstrations and more.
The event showcases the collaborative spirit at the heart of Alfred’s New York State College of Ceramics’ School of Art & Design and Inamori School of Engineering. It is a moment when disciplines intersect, when art meets science, and when the campus opens itself fully to the surrounding community
Ring of Fire is not only something to watch, but also something to experience. Guests are invited to take part in hands-on activities, including carving scratch blocks, and participating in Raku firings— where ceramics emerge dramatically from flames and smoke—and metal pours. These interactive opportunities reflect Alfred’s deep commitment to experiential learning, where knowledge is built through doing, and where the boundaries between artist, student, and visitor dissolve.
The event, sponsored by the Office of Admissions, is free and open to the public. There are charges for hands-on making activities— creating your own cast metal or Raku-fired pieces—cash payment only. Undergraduate students can create one free item—cast metal or Raku fired—until supplies run out. Students must show their student ID to create a piece of art for free. Closed-toed shoes are recommended for anyone who wishes to create a piece.
