Allen grew up in the rugged mountain wilderness of Alaska. She received he BFA in Ceramics from the University of Alaska Anchorage and her MFA in Ceramics at Indiana University Bloomington. From 1998-2002, she was a production potter at Bliss Pottery in Alaska. She was awarded the prestigious Taunt Fellowship at the Archie Bray Foundation in 2006-7 and in 2008, NCECA (National Council on the Education of the Ceramic Arts) recognized her as an Emerging Artist. Jen has been awarded residencies around the country and is an active workshop presenter. Her work has been featured in several books and numerous publications. Jennifer is a founding member of the Objective Clay collective and is currently teaching ceramics at West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV.

Jen’s work seeks to enhance the beauty of the domestic space. Her work is a testament to the power of the handmade object that provides both physical and psychological nourishment whether as a mug to be enjoyed while drinking your morning coffee or a flower brick that provides the centerpiece to a special dinner. Inspired by patterns that range from Edo kimono fabrics to Arts and Crafts era textiles, Allen uses the seamstress’s methods to cut, dart, pleat and fold leaving these specific techniques visible in the final piece. Each form is embellished with floral and decorative stamps that she creates herself.

Influenced by her love of nature and its myriad aspects, Jen decorates the surface of her pots with floral motifs. The mark of her hand is visible in each and every surface, embracing the imperfections of the handmade object, yet in that irregularity the user of her works is able to find a more perfect beauty.

Working primarily in porcelain and celadons her most recent work utilizes a brown stoneware clay and a white glaze. To see more of Jen’s work visit jenniferallenceramics.com