Her vision is to place unique, one-of-a-kind ceramic art in the hands of clients in order to transform the appearance of their homes, offices, or public buildings.

"Although my work is contemporary in nature, there is also a primitive appeal, because the pieces are slowly pit-fired in straw after the kiln firing."

Doorways, mantels, and windows can be enriched and made more visually interesting with the addition of ceramic architectural artwork. Arlene's work includes tiled arches and panels that incorporate designs of nature and the earth to create a natural connection for her clients.

Hanging sculptural or tiled ceramic art along hallways or corridors, for example, can create a visual area for one to follow and feel some interconnection with.

"I think what makes my tiles different is the smoke firing that they go through. It makes a primitive background, seemingly behind the plant impressions. I love smoke-firing not only because of the smoky appearance, but because I've always loved bonfires. Now I get to have one every day!"

Using a technique of rolling plants into clay tiles, she fires the individual tiles in her kiln, and then colors and pit-fires each art pieces in straw.  Selling large wall murals as well as individual tiles, Arlene's plant series tiles have become her primary focus.  Her inspirations have been featured in exhibitions, including shows in New York, New Orleans, Philadelphia, and of course Francisco's Farm Arts Festival at Midway College.

Can't wait til the Festival? Nashville Public Television's program 'Tennessee Crossroads' featured Arlene in a lovely video that aired just before Francisco's Farm Arts Festival last June. You can see Arlene at work creating her beautiful impressions in clay, and learn a bit about what inspires her. Watch the video...Episode 4 - Arlene's Clay Art.

You might also like to participate in this weekend's studio tour. Arlene has been a member of the annual self-guided "Off the Beaten Path" Studio Tour, held the last weekend in October, for the past 10 years. During this free event, you can meet artists in the diverse settings that inspire their creativity. This year's Tour features 11 stops, including 10 studios, with more than two dozen participating artists.  It's a great  excuse to get out and enjoy the breathtaking fall scenery of the Center Hill Lake region of Middle Tennessee,  converse with the area's leading artists and art patrons, and purchase or commission original artwork.