David Allyn, photo by Scott Lapham.
Performance art was the catalyst for David Allyn’s career as a ceramic artist. His gigs as “Uncle Thirsty” led him to make ceramic cups, which he says led to a “more grounded” approach to his craft. Using photo decals and silkscreen printing on porcelain, Allyn creates one-of-a-kind handmade porcelain objects, filled with color and imagery. His work often reflects popular culture, and a recent series has focused on Providence buildings. Allyn is the founder of the Steel Yard’s ceramics department, where he has taught classes for over a decade. Originally from the Midwest, Allyn graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh, before earning an MFA in ceramics from the Rhode Island School of Design. He has a full-time studio practice at the Nicholson File Building in Providence, and curates exhibits in his gallery at Monnohasset Mill, Thirsty’s Gallery #104.
Source: NetWorks 2015-2016 Catalogue
Municipal Maintenance Building Platter, 2015
Porcelain with screen print, d. 18 13/16 in.
Credits:
Video: Richard Goulis
Executive Producer: Joseph A. Chazan, M.D.
Additional Resources:
- Artist’s website: www.davidallyn.net
- Providence Initiative for Psychogeographic Studies
Highlighting the work of selected artists who have played vital roles in shaping the contemporary visual arts community in Rhode Island. This collection of brief video portraits provides a window into the lives, practices, and cultural contributions of professional artists.
