Whimsical, Spiritied Sculptures by Local Artist Celebrated Nationally

Tools

By Carolyn Swallows

Oddly shaped forms and faces with a spirited quality greated guests at Art a la carte Friday.  They had come to see the work of Marilee Hall, whose 30 year career in earthen clay sculpture has produced work that some call whimsical -- "vessels and sculptural forms with a lift." 

The artist spoke to guests about the strong narrative element to her work that "feels illustrative of folk tales, and often tells the story of events in  my life."     Lee says that she is drawn to figurative work and works with white earthenware clay using slabs, coils and extrusions.

Her "rich and inviting surfaces are created through the application of layered oxide under glazes and specialty glazes" according to organizers at Art a la carte.  Lee was quoted as saying “The clay object has such history, moving with mankind onward from the nomadic life to food-storing, community-building, and personal expression. Even at its most idiosyncratic, ceramic work continues to be fed by its long roots. I revel in the nourishment clay provides.”

Lee has a studio in the Depot area of Cookeville, where she offers workshops and invites famiy participation.  

Now represented by the Riley Galleries in Chicago, IL and participating for the second year in the international SOFA exhibition at Navy Pier in November, Lee is a local artist whose work is receiving national attention.

Upcoming events for Lee include:

 

galleryartalacarte.com  

november 3-6, 2011
SOFA
represented by Riley Galleries

Navy Pier, Chicago, IL
sofaexpo.com  

november 11-12, 2011

ART Prowl
My studio, among other places, in downtown Cookeville, TN
artprowl.com  

december 9-11, 2011

Charlotte Fine Art Show
Charlotte Convention Center
charlottefineartshow

 

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