Welcome!

Biography

Tennyson Lewallen is a multidisciplinary artist born in Alaska and raised in Wyoming. She is currently studying Fine Arts at Sheridan College, expected to graduate in the spring of 2026 with an Associate of Fine Arts. Along with her studies, Lewallen is a gallery assistant at the Edward A. Whitney Gallery and has interned at the Brinton Museum and SAGE Gallery in Sheridan, Wyoming. The artist works in both two- and three-dimensions, focusing on two main media: clay and charcoal. She explores the materiality of the media, the markmaking of charcoal, and the pliability of clay. She currently strives to deepen her love of clay, exploring the form of a functional ceramic piece. Lewallen has displayed work at the Neltje Gallery and the Edward A. Whitney Gallery in Sheridan, Wyoming.​

Artist Statement

I create in various mediums, exploring both two- and three-dimensional works. I choose to draw with charcoal because of its malleability and versatility. When using charcoal in my practice, I often use paint brushes to blend the medium seamlessly, bridging the gap between drawing and painting. I am often drawn to represent the seemingly mundane objects and scenes from everyday life in my two-dimensional works. When working three-dimensionally, I prefer working with clay. I enjoy exploring the form of functional pottery, taking into account its weight, comfort in the hand, and appearance. When working with clay, I prefer to throw my pieces on the wheel, throwing smaller objects such as mugs, bowls, and vases. I especially enjoy the process of creating a ceramic piece, the constant sketching, testing, and revising that comes before the finished piece. A form I take great joy in creating is a simple cup. A cup is an intimate object that we bring to our lips and hold close to our bodies. This piece that many begin their day with has become a ritualistic practice, and in turn, should be created thoughtfully and intentionally. The pieces I create combine soft curves that fit well in the hand with an angular base, acting as a pedestal for the works, lifting them from the surface on which they are placed.