Lauren Mabry

​​I make ceramic sculptures and dimensional glaze paintings that capture moments of uncontrolled transformation. My sculptures appear fixed as objects in transition, as if plucked from a chain reaction of events. These ever-dynamic compositions feature rich, vibrant glazes that remain in constant fluctuation between flowing liquids and solid structures. By the inherent nature of the process, the work challenges our perceptions and the physical state of matter. I am compelled by vivid, hyper-real colors and textures that seem to shift before the eye, providing pathways to imagine wild evolutions beyond this world. The work is grounded in the physicality of earthly materials and objecthood, yet it is also something less tangible: a contemplative, psychedelic space. Each piece is a reflection of my desire to understand the relationships between control, chance, and divine timing. The form is made of hollow clay, then stuffed full of paste-like glaze. During the kiln firing at peak temperature, the glaze materials inside the structure become viscous and drip out of holes, stretching into colorful swirls and melted formations of glass that intermingle with geometric ceramic structures. Making this work forces me to let go of expectations (what I predict the piece will look like emerging from the kiln) versus reality (how the glazes spontaneously drip). Even though my investigations are incredibly specific, they are also universal. I am invested in glaze chemistry and the science of ceramics; however, I also love to challenge preconceived ideas of what ceramics can become, so I work in highly experimental modalities to be continuously surprised. In an art historical context, these pieces may be understood in relation to Process art, Abstract Expressionism, and Surrealism. Whereas formally, the work evokes toxic landscapes, open mouths, and candy-like caverns. This work is a spiritual manifestation of my instinct to understand the world around me, but more so my choice to relinquish control and surrender to the universe.


The Filters you have chosen do not return any results. Please modify your filter selection.