ABOUT MARLA ALLISON

Art is how you feel, who you are, and comes from the soul. —Marla Allison

Marla Allison is an accomplished painter who skillfully blends cultural traditions with modern art. Originating from Laguna Pueblo, New Mexico, Marla’s upbringing in a community rich with customs and beliefs has profoundly influenced her artistic expression.

She honed her talents at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Her commitment to participating in artist residencies underscores her passion for ongoing exploration and cultural exchange. With a lifestyle centered on travel and cultural engagement, Marla has developed a diverse portfolio encompassing lectures, murals, illustrations, and global exhibitions.

Marla's art career unfolded after devoting eight years to construction with her dad and brothers when she turned to her artistic roots by unveiling works that had quietly accumulated in her closet. Displaying her art at various shows became a pivotal moment, enabling her work to thrive and resonate with audiences. 

Her work is influenced by Hopi and Laguna Pueblo pottery designs as well as renowned artists like Pablo Picasso and Paul Klee. She channels these inspirations into her unique visual language, characterized by mosaic qualities that invite viewers to piece together fragments of cultural and personal identity. 

Marla's art has been showcased in prestigious settings, including The Heard Museum Indian Fair and Market, The Santa Fe Indian Market, and The Smithsonian Native Art Market.

Her work maintains an ongoing dialogue between her heritage and the evolving world, reflecting her core values of honoring past traditions while embracing future possibilities.