Allison Clements
AQ is our series of hardcover catalogs celebrating extraordinary women artists. Available on Amazon. Visit the AQ Catalog Webpage to learn more.
Allison Clements, featured in AQ Volume VI, has a BFA in Painting from Ohio University and a Master’s in Art Education from the University of Toledo. She has taught painting and drawing at Toledo School for the Arts, a nationally ranked charter school, and at the Toledo Museum of Art. For many years, Allison found joy in inspiring the creative journeys of her students. After she became a mother to three children in four years, Allison put her art and teaching careers on hold as family and motherhood became her primary focus. In 2021, Allison reestablished herself as a full-time artist. She has exhibited internationally and has works in public and private collections.
Allison met her husband of 25 years while studying art in Prague, CZ. They have three children. Allison currently has representation with: Rennie Art Company (VA), Artly International (TX), and Fuller Art House (OH).
https://www.allisonclements.com/
What inspired you to become an artist, and how did you decide to commit to this path?
My mother was my greatest inspiration; she saw my talent early on and encouraged me to pursue it. As a docent at the Toledo Museum of Art, she filled my world with creativity, museum visits, and art classes. That foundation made it easy to commit to studying art in college and building a life around it.
Could you share the story or concept behind your recent work?
These recent pieces are inspired by flowers that hold special meaning—my wedding bouquet, blooms given to me, and ones I’ve seen while traveling. Each one brings back favorite memories and moments filled with love and joy. Through painting them, I’m capturing those feelings and sharing a bit of that beauty and emotion with others.
What role does experimentation and exploration play in your artistic practice?
Experimentation keeps my work fresh and alive. When I stop overthinking and allow myself to play, that’s when the most exciting ideas surface. I’m always curious—trying new materials, exploring techniques, and pushing myself to take creative risks.
What message do you hope your art conveys to the world?
I hope my art takes people to a happy place. There’s already so much heaviness in the world—my goal isn’t to add to that, but to offer a moment of joy, lightness, and beauty. If my work can spark a good memory, bring a smile, or brighten someone’s day, then I feel like I’ve done my job.
Share a mantra or favorite quote that keeps you going.
"Trust the process" is a mantra I come back to again and again. As an artist, the creative journey is full of highs and lows—moments of clarity and joy, and moments of doubt or frustration. This phrase reminds me to follow my gut when I’m creating, to stay present in each stage of the work, and to resist the urge to rush toward a finished product. It’s about blocking out the noise, letting go of perfectionism, and believing in myself—even when things feel uncertain.
