audra clayton

Duration: April 2023

Audra Clayton plans to revisit sculptural explorations she began exploring 20 years ago in college. Upon graduating college, her ability to work with these forms was halted by her space, resources, and life needs. Instead, she dove into the world of functional ceramics, compelled to make works that could be used and marketable. Audra’s functional work carried her practice and led her to a career in studio management. Away from the constant interruptions of her thriving community ceramics studio, she is excited to return to her roots in sculpture while in New Harmony and bring her long acquired clay skills to this new body of work.

quick facts

How many years have you been working as a clay artist? 20-ish years.

What is your main clay body that you currently use? Reclaim for the slop bucket at work.

What is the primary method you use for building your work? Wheel throwing.

What is your favorite studio tool? A red rubber rib.

Do you have any future clay wishes or dreams? To see a room in a gallery filled with my sculptures.

ARTIST STATEMENT

My current artistic exploration centers on using functional elements to create sculptural forms that show the internal and external forces that drive me to create. I strive to use the vocabulary of ceramic skills I have gathered over time to make successful works that challenge the materials yet are technically sound and visually intriguing. I draw on my love of community and collaborative influence. I carry a deep respect for the fact that art is a driving force for change, connection, and love. My work speaks to my deep desire to leave things better than I found them and to strive for betterness in myself.

BIOGRAPHY

BORN: Altoona, PA | USA

Audra Clayton balances a career in education and making. She is the Ceramics Coordinator at the Pittsburgh Center for Arts and Media (PCA&M). Audra studied Arts Education focused in cultural and social agencies at Penn State University. She regularly attends workshops at Touchstone Center for Craft and wood fires with other local artists. While teaching at PCA&M and local high schools, she also sells and exhibits her work regionally. Most recently at the Erie Museum of Art and PCA&M, Audra exhibited in conjunction with her interns about the importance of apprenticeship and residencies.