From Coast to Clay is a series of ceramic sculptures and vessels inspired by the ocean life of

Neskowin and the Oregon coast. Through carving, texturing, and glazing, I translate the patterns of tide pools, local animals, and plants into pieces that invite touch and reflection. By bringing these forms into a gallery space, I aim to create a moment of pause for viewers to experience the raw beauty of the coast and reflect on their own ties to the natural world. Through this work, I hope to spark a renewed appreciation for nature’s presence in our lives and highlight our responsibility to protect it.

Artist Bio: Levi Gallagher is a ceramic artist based in Oregon, inspired by the coastal landscapes and marine life of the Pacific Northwest. Currently completing a B.A. in Studio Art at George Fox University, Levi has been working with clay for over 10 years, creating sculptural and functional ceramics that explore the connection between humans and nature. His work features carved textures and layered glazes that echo the patterns and textures of the world around him. Through these pieces, Levi invites viewers to reflect on their relationship with the natural world and the importance of environmental stewardship. When not in the studio, Levi enjoys exploring the outdoors and gathering inspiration along the Oregon coast.

Familiar Faces challenges the tendency for us as humans to create separations between ourselves. Just as the blank space, raw edges, and smudgy details of these portraits leave the subject unfinished, so too will one never truly understand the people one passes on the street. However, humans have an endless number of commonalities. The intimacy this show offers can be an opportunity to learn to view others not as strangers, but as familiar faces. 

Artist Bio: Lilias Tamminga is an Illustrator/Fine Artist based in the Pacific Northwest. She is graduating from George Fox University this May and plans on continuing to work with local businesses, community spaces, and various schools to create picture books, murals, and illustrations. Her creative practice over the last seven years has developed in her a love of portraiture. As someone who believes in the innate worth of all humans, Lilias finds portraiture a necessary subject matter for artistic expression. Drawing someone’s portrait is one way she engages in learning their story and adding that story into her tableau of faces.

Her work is greatly affected by her love of traditional media and techniques. Lily is inspired by the natural beauty of the world around her, and especially the intricate nuances of the human face. She explores the ways in which an artist can present the truth that is often difficult to name, such as the subtle color changes in someone’s hair, or the unique expression of a friend. These truths are what distinguish people from one another, but also provide points of deep connection. 

Lilias is dedicated to adding new stories to her collection of portraits, and creating work which brings people into communion with one another.