Suzy Allan is a ceramic artist whose creatively constructed works of clay mirror the world around her. They vary in design as well as function, reflecting the natural beauty and sense of serenity that surrounds her in Sedona. As a young girl, Suzy was encouraged by her mother to take a variety of art classes. She won several awards and a scholarship. While attending college she studied art, design, photography, and earned her degree in Interior Design. She works as an professional Interior Designer and Space Planner.
Suzy began her work at Sedona Arts Center in 2007. She has worked as an assistant to Dennis Ott in the Ceramics Department, helping to keep the studio running smoothly, and teaching workshops in hand building techniques. She enjoys the shared connections of working alongside other ceramic artists and participating in their collective art shows. She is inspired by their generosity of spirit and finds them all a joy to work with. Many times, especially during the sculpting process, she has felt divinely guided as if someone else’s hands were molding the clay. Suzy feels working in clay requires a Zen state of mind. She says you never know how a piece will ultimately turn out, if at all. It is a constant lesson in letting go and not being attached.
From Suzy:
“I began playing in the clay before the age of seven. I played in the clay during high school, college, and in my career years. But it wasn’t until I played in the clay at Sedona Arts Center that I had an epiphany.
I was working on a sculpture and I felt a direct connection to Spirit. It was like something or someone else was guiding my hands. I was amazed at what was being created right before eyes. It is that feeling of connection to the Universal Consciousness that keeps me coming back for more.
About 5 years ago I began exploring hand building ceramic boxes and I have been refining the process ever since. After many requests to share my knowledge, I started teaching box making and hand building workshops. I found I loved teaching!
I am excited to share my techniques and tools so others can fall in love with this amazing artistic expression. It is so rewarding to help others bring their visions to life.
Come play in the clay with me.”
