Allen Monsarrat, Robert Allen Monsarrat

1952 Born Memphis, Tennessee

EDUCATION

1971-1974 Coursework, School of Architecture, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana

1977 BFA Ceramics Concentration, Memphis College of Arts, Memphis, Tennessee

PRIMARY WORK EXPERIENCE

1977-1999 Sole Proprietor, Monserrat Pottery, Friendsville, Tennessee

2001-2017 Contractor, Wall & Cabinet Finisher, Knoxville, Tennessee

Allen Monsarrat is known for creating wheel-thrown functional ceramics. Monsarrat creates three different lines of stoneware pottery: (1) landscape-themed dinnerware; (2) stony matte pottery, made with white glaze with blue accents; and (3) combed white slip covered pottery, made with a green glaze with copper red accents. 

Synthetic ash glazes are also a feature on many of Monsarrat's creations.  Signature forms include dinnerware sets and serving platters. Monsarrat's work is reduction fired in gas kiln to 2,350 degrees F.

He is also know for encouraging the individual style development of professional potters working at Monserrat Pottery. As the sole proprietor of Monsarrat Pottery for over 20 years, he did not enforce a group aesthetic on his workers. He hired professional potters to develop their own style of work for the pottery. Artists who worked with Monsarrat include: Peter Rose, Mark Garret, Will Byers, and Shadow May.