Eric Carlson

Associate Professor of Studio Art

Bio

Eric received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Ceramics and Metals and Jewelry from Illinois State University and his Master of Fine Arts degree in Ceramics with a minor in Fibers from the University of Missouri-Columbia. He has shown work locally, regionally, and nationally. Eric is currently the Associate Professor of Studio Art/Ceramics, Metalcraft, Sculpture, and Foundations at the University of Saint Francis. He has also taught at the University of Central Missouri, University of Wisconsin- Green Bay.

Eric currently has multiple bodies of different work. One involves narrative-based work, focused on the concept of the human body as a storyteller and historical marker through the use of ceramic figuration and mixed media sculpture. This is done through multiple ceramic processes: thrown, carved, press-molded, and slip cast pieces are fired then assembled.    The other is fiber-based work that invites the viewer into the realm of violence through the seduction of the material used. Proceeds from this work when sold are to go to shelters for victims of abuse and violence. “As an artist this is one way I can give back to and help my community.” This work also points out the things we tend to overlook as a society.  In 2007 one of his pieces was selected for Sculpture magazines outstanding student achievement in contemporary sculpture awards, shown at their gallery and published in their magazine. He has shown in a variety of venues, local, regional, and national. Teaching and watching his student’s growth inspires him not only to become a better artist but a better person.



Affiliations/ Membership

  • NCECA

Selected Publications

  • 2018 PBS 39 Art In Focus season 6, May 24th, Fort Wayne, IN
  • 2013 The 28th Tallahassee International Catalogue, August, 28th Issue, pg 4
  • 2011 Hi+Res Magazine, “UCM Faculty: Words with Eric Carlson, April 6, Issue 3
  • 2009 Lynn Israel, “Fate art tour folds creativity into every shape and form”, Columbia Dailey Tribune, May 24 
  • Bharat Choudhary, “Preparing for the show”, Columbia Missourian, May 14
  • 2008 Sara Agnew, “Ovation”, A faculty for creation, Eric Carlson, Columbia Daily Tribune, January 13, Section C
  • 2007 Nancy Moen, “Student Close-Up”, Sculpting Success, Mizzou, September 1
  • Sculpture Magazine, “International Sculpture Center 2007 Outstanding Student Achievement in Contemporary Sculpture Awards, October, Vol.26 No. 8, pg. 56
  • Mary T. Ngyen, “NICHE”, Eric Carlson, Columbia Daily Tribune, April 1
  • 2006 G.J. McCarthy, “OUR TOWN”, Eric Carlson, Columbia Daily Tribune, September 3
  • Kimmel Harding Nelson Center for the Art, Nebraska City, NE

Selected Presentations

  • Has exhibited Regionally and Nationally