Alison Dougherty's paintings are immersive visual experiences shaped by a dynamic range of energy drawn from personal encounters and lived experiences. Through abstract layering, forceful brushstrokes, impactful sgraffito-style mark making, and intentionally placed bursts of color, she creates works that feel both raw and atmospheric. Thick pigment is thrown and splattered across softly blended backgrounds, building surfaces rich with movement and emotion.
Throughout her practice, Alison has infused her work with a passion for biophilic design, the belief that because humans evolved in nature, our minds and bodies are inherently drawn to it. She spends hours outdoors collecting and color-matching treasures found on her adventures, translating the vitality of the natural world onto canvas.
Alison has a unique ability to pull viewers beyond the painted layers and into intimate emotional spaces while simultaneously creating distance that leaves room for wonder, contemplation, and curiosity. Her work makes a bold creative statement; challenging, thought-provoking, witty, and visually compelling. Constantly evolving, she continues to push herself through new ideas, concepts, and an ever-expanding exploration of color.
Education
Portland State University, Portland, OR:
Bachelor of Fine Art
Artists Studied Under
William Park
Collections
Jordan Schnitzer Foundation
Body of Work
2014-current: Works on Paper (available)
2021-current: Small Works (available)
2021-current: Titles Are Everything (available)
2023-current: Haiku d’eta (available)
2025-current: Make Out Sessions (available)
2026-current: Touch Grass (available)