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Allyson May

Artist’s Statement

As an artist I continually search for new, exciting ways in which I can express my true voice. As a ceramic artist, the ever-changing medium of clay provides me the opportunity to impart something of myself – something of my true voice, if you will – as the foundation of my art. My fascination has always been with the hand built vessel, in particular those of the Pueblo Indian tribes. They would approach each and every creation with skill, imagination and reverence; for their vessels were made to work, to serve, to worship, to celebrate. More important, Indian culture also tells us each hand built vessel was intended to live a life on its own; and by doing so, to carry a part of its maker throughout all time. My goal as an artist is to honor the intent and spirit of the craft embodied by these artists of long ago, while exploring new ways to infuse energy and excitement in a way that captures your attention and persuades you to pause for a moment … perhaps to visualize more in the art than what can simply be seen. Like the art that has influenced me, my work also carries a part of me within every design and on every surface … who I am and what I wish to say is in the vessel before you.

Stoney Creek Pottery

"As one of the oldest mediums that combines both function and beauty still in use, clay gives me a sense of dimension and possibilities."

In 1993, Allyson May retired from her teaching position and began to indulge – in earnest – her interest in artistic expression. Ceramics soon became her medium of choice. “I have always been fascinated with Native American pottery, particularly that of the Pueblo Indian tribes. To me, the vessels they create represent an amalgam of classic functionality perfectly combined with an amazing sense of strength, grace, spirit and perpetuity.” This fascination has guided Allyson throughout her artistic journey. Her unique ability to view the world and interpret what is seen at the most elemental level has made it possible for Allyson to fashion truly inspired pieces of art. Proficient in Raku, Naked Raku, Cone 6 functional ware and, of course, handcrafted smoke-fired vessels, Allyson also develops her own glazes and clays as a way of creating art that expresses an emotional message of the here and now, while honoring the spirit of the Native American past.

SELECTED EXHIBITIONS AND AWARDS ClayFest , University Of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 2006 ClayFest Honorable Mention Award, 2006 62nd Annual Wabash Valley Juried Exhibition, Terre Haute, IN, 2006 Dr. Jack G. Weinbaum Memorial & Beatrice S. Hyman Memorial Award Of Excellence Monroe County Bank Exhibition, Bloomington, IN, 2006 Local Clay 11th Annual Exhibition and Sale, Bloomington, IN, 2005 60th Annual Wabash Valley Juried Exhibition, Terre Haute, IN, 2004 Earth In Balance: A Regional Clay Competition, Kettering, OH, 2004

SELECTED COLLECTIONS Permanent Collection, Indiana State University

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