The Dictionary of American Studio Ceramics, 1946 Onward
The Dictionary of American Studio Ceramics, 1946 Onward
Printer Friendly Version
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.
Public Collections
American Museum of Ceramic Art, Ponoma, California
Southern Highland Guild, Asheville, North Carolina
Tennessee Valley Authority, Knoxville, Tennessee
![]() | Southern Highland Craft Guild |
![]() | Center For Craft |
Citation: Jeffrey Kuratnick. "The Marks Project." Last modified September 1, 2022. http://themarksproject.org:443/marks/monsarrat