“I am a storyteller: I tell stories with words, and I tell stories with clay. Terracotta is my chosen material for the rich color of the natural surface, and I am influenced by red clay traditions from Mexico, the Visayas, Japan and Italy. I use the figure to respond to themes and issues, the role of sculptors across time and around the world." Susannah Israel's sculptures reveal a gritty yet passionate view of humanity, drawn from city life. She engages diverse communities throughout the western states, giving lectures, workshops and masterclasses, and mentors with the Color Network. Israel’s expressive work is widely exhibited and held in the collections of the Archie Bray Foundation, AMOCA, Auckland Memorial Museum, New Zealand, Mint Museum, UConn Art Collection, the Yingge Ceramics Museum, parks and libraries, and many other sites around the world. Selected honors include the Fletcher Challenge Premier Award, Gottlieb Foundation grant, Virginia Groot Award and others.