The work: Allison Mueller, Sur La Neige #1, 2022. Textured glaze, woven natural jute rope, cotton string and clay, set of three, approx. 40 x 7cm each. $990. Courtesy: the artist
The three forms that make up Sur La Neige #1 utilise a variety of textures, shapes and finishes to evoke a landscape experienced by artist Allison Mueller, echoing the alluringly barren rocks and dirt of Coolamatong in southern NSW. Originally trained as an interior designer, Mueller aims to form ceramic pieces that bring visual interest to a room as a whole — the artist creates objects for the sake of beauty, or in her words: “they are not functional, they just are”. The height of the pieces is a testimony to Mueller’s skill, as tall and narrow ceramic works are extremely difficult to throw on a wheel. Nevertheless, the artist does not strive for perfectionism in her pieces, but rather embraces the dips and curves created by her touch, adding whimsical and often asymmetrical additions to accentuate their individuality. Hand-built and woven components are a common element in her work, here manifesting in off-kilter handles and hand-made beads adorning additions made of jute and raffia. Each part of the ensemble has its own personality, finished with groggy clays and rough glazes. The works speak to the uniqueness of the Coolamatong landscape, finished in monochrome tones to accentuate the innately textural nature of her work.