Mustafa Ali Clayton (b. 1978) is a multidisciplinary artist focusing on
ceramics, specifically hand built sculptures and portraiture. His
practice is deeply rooted in adapting traditional techniques to
contemporary subject matter. With an interest in utilizing organic
and sustainable materials, Clayton uses natural elements of the
earth, weaving in references to history and lineage through a
process that spans oil painting, quilting, beading, ceramics, and
assemblage. Clayton’s deliberate use of earth sourced fibers, clay,
wax, wood, beads, and pigments, demonstrates the intimate and
labor-intensive aspects of his process. The outcome is a series of
ceramic objects, figures, and portraits referencing components of
Black womanhood and manhood, while simultaneously confronting
and questioning the legacy of such iconography.
Clayton has exhibited in various cities in the US and abroad.
Recent exhibitions include, “Ten Years” at Wilding Cran Gallery,
“Aesthetics of Everyday Objects: The Cup” at ATLA, Los Angeles,
“The Air Upon You” at Frieze No. 9 Cork Street in London, a group
exhibition “A Love Letter to LA” at Phillips Auction House, Los
Angeles, and “Ceramics Synthesized” at Blumenfield Projects.
Clayton is primarily self taught and continues to innovate new
techniques to execute his evolving ideas. In 2024, Clayton
completed a summer residency at the Skowhegan School of
Painting and Sculpture. Born in Toronto and raised between Canada
and the US, Clayton lives and works in Los Angeles.