About the Artist

Sonja Metzler
From an early age, I found myself drawn to clay. While I enjoy working in several artistic mediums, I am especially captivated by the presence and depth of three-dimensional art. Sculpture allows me to shape a subject from every angle, giving it life and dimension in a way that feels both natural and deeply fulfilling.
Since 2012, I have focused on creating full-figure sculptures. Before that, my exploration of three-dimensional art centered on wheel-thrown pottery, where I developed a strong foundation in form and technique.
I was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and raised in the beautiful suburb of Rembrandt Park. My childhood was rich and vibrant, shaped by a country abundant in natural beauty—diverse landscapes ranging from subtropical regions to arid terrain, along with an extraordinary array of plant and animal life. Growing up among such cultural diversity and environmental richness left a lasting impression on me.
I graduated from Hillcrest High School in KwaZulu-Natal, on South Africa’s eastern coast, and initially pursued a career in drafting.
In 1987, I relocated to the United States, beginning in Southern California before moving to Alaska, where I lived for eleven years. In 1998, my husband and I settled in northeastern Washington State, where we enjoy life on a small mountain property.
My days are a balance of home and ranch life, time spent outdoors in the garden, and hours in my art studio. This rhythm allows me to stay grounded while continuing to create.
My work reflects both African and North American influences, drawing inspiration from my roots in South Africa and my adult life in the United States. These combined experiences shape the stories and forms I bring to life through sculpture.