ALLISON ACHTENHAGEN

she/her

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Bio:

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Allison Achtenhagen is currently an Artist in Residence at the KC Clay Guild in Kansas City, Missouri. She graduated in May of 2023 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in ceramics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. While in school Allison took full advantage of the opportunities that surrounded her including teaching at the LUX Center for the Arts in Lincoln, NE. She was also an assistant to Eddie Dominguez on a large public art installation as well as a studio assistant to Amy Smith. Allison highly values experiences where she can get hands on and become deeply invested in a project or community. Originally from Colorado, Allison enjoys spending time outdoors and going on adventures with those she loves.

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Statement:

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My work begins on the potter’s wheel, after which parts are combined and pierced with an X-acto knife to create striking, patterned objects. I gravitate towards an uncomplicated, but colorful, use of glaze that enhances the beauty of each object while allowing the form to be seen clearly. With the understanding that my art is handmade and imperfect, I strive to create pieces that are resolved and highly considered, making them almost mechanical at first. I then find ways to alter and soften the pierced areas to come to a finished piece that is both mechanical and human.