Altars by Emily Bayless

Daphne Art Foundation presents “Altars” a solo exhibition by Emily Bayless.

The show opens with an artist reception on Friday, May 16, 2025.

Bayless presents some of her recent ceramic sculptures as altars in this exhibition presented at Casa Daphne. The altars in Bayless’ show are unconventional displays of veneration that include pastries, cigarettes, lipsticks, and tweezers. The objects honor womanhood, adulthood, things that are precious, or cherished, and very intimate moments of reflection we may all have experienced at one time. 

"From open to close, [Casa Daphne] will change, fill, and take a different form based on how the audience interacts with the works... It creates time and space for the audience to have a thoughtful interaction and consider what the symbols represent in the work, but also what they might mean to them." - Emily Bayless

Bayless’ altars are whimsical and amusing. Each piece exhibits the way she shapes the clay during her creative process. Her techniques include slab-stacking and -building, pinching and molding. The altars are architectural and reminiscent of tiles, pedestals, and fashion accessories. For example, “Moon Jar Ofrenda for Eve” has ornate and delicately decorated handle-like grips that are similar to purse handles. Each handle halos a small altar to an object of affection. The halos are also evocative of flowers, lace, and cake decorations. 

Emily Bayless (b. 1988) works in clay and fiber. She received a BFA in ceramics from Arizona State University and an MFA in ceramics from the University of Colorado Boulder. Her expertise in hand building, wheel throwing, mold making, sculptural installation, kiln firing techniques, and surface decoration techniques. Bayless is self-taught in various weaving and sewing techniques. Bayless has been living in Laredo since 2020. She is Assistant Professor of Art teaching Ceramics at Texas A&M International University. “Altars” is Bayless’ first solo show in Laredo.

“Altars” by Emily Bayless will be on view at Casa Daphne, located at 1420 Washington Street, through June 27, 2025. Gallery hours are by appointment. To schedule a viewing call (956) 307-8984.

Casa Daphne 1420 Washington Street

Laredo, Texas

The event is free and open to the entire community.

The night will include music, food and light refreshments.

To learn more about Emily Bayless, click HERE.