Ceramics/Pottery
Kimberly Allison, Room 316
@kallisonceramics
kallisonceramics.com
The tactile experience has always captivated me. As a child, I was drawn to art, art shows, and museums, but dismayed by the prevalence of "do not touch" signs. In clay, I discovered a medium that celebrates the connection between sight and touch, inviting interaction rather than detachment. Pottery is not merely for viewing; it craves engagement, and is designed to be touched, used, and woven into our daily lives.
My current body of work explores the inherent tactile qualities of clay. I use both wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques, a variety of smooth and groggy dark clay bodies, slips, and additives to explore the raw, elemental beauty of the material. The striking landscapes of Iceland—its volcanoes, lava fields, and breathtaking terrain—inspire my forms and textures, infusing my work with a sense of place and wonder.
Each piece I create aims to foster a dialogue between the user and the object, enhancing everyday rituals with beauty, intentionality, and a deeper connection to the moment. I invite viewers to not only see but to experience my work, transforming the mundane into the extraordinary through tactile engagement.
Bio
Kimberly Allison is a ceramic artist based in Salem, Massachusetts, with over 12 years of experience working with clay. She has dedicated herself to her craft full-time since 2016 after transitioning from a decade-long career in graphic design and film. Since 2018, Kim has participated in juried fine craft shows across the country, and in 2021, she held her first solo exhibition at the Southern Vermont Arts Center. Since late 2022, she has embarked on an exciting artistic journey, moving from eight years of highly detailed, carved porcelain to exploring the rich, earthy textures of stoneware. In addition to her studio practice, which she shares with her husband, their cat, and a reluctant "studio assistant" pup, Kim teaches classes and workshops at The Clay School in Lynn, Massachusetts. Through her teaching, she hopes to inspire students of all levels to discover their own passion for ceramics.
This is Kim’s 12th year participating in Open Studios, and her 11th as part of the planning team.
