Allison Newsome

The fragments of rocks, shards, and flora that compose Allison Newsome’s ceramic torso, Foxglove Pants, make it seem as though the figure has emerged directly from the earth. Indeed, the artist’s creative process is closely linked to the natural world. In the spirit of a plein air painter, she begins her process by working outside with clay slip, creating quick three-dimensional sketches that draw directly on elements of the natural environment. She then brings the clay sketch back to her studio and uses it to develop her larger work. The seemingly rough elements that characterize Foxglove Pants have actually been worked and reworked by the artist to appear just that way. Bright, glossy blossoms in pink glaze adorning the figure harmonize with the rustic earthy tones of the torso.