Lisa McCoy’s clay sculptures are generally characterized by expressive faces with jesters serving as one of her favorite subjects.

The Columbus-based artist’s work is set to be displayed in LaGrange later this month, and she said that she hopes that her art will bring joy to those who view it.

“Sometimes the work just kind of creates itself, and that is the most fun,” McCoy said. “I would like for people to have fun when they look at it, for it to bring them some joy.”

McCoy has experimented with different materials and methods, but clay is her favorite artistic medium.

“I’ve tried lots of things, including stem carving and painting, 2D, 3D, and I guess I like it (clay) because it is quick — relatively speaking,” McCoy said.

“Of course, it all depends on how detailed the piece that you are working on is, so I just enjoy it. I enjoy working with it because I can make it do what I want it to do.”

She said that she sees herself as an entertainer who uses her art to bring joy to audiences.

“I do like jesters because they were the first entertainers, and I suppose when you are an artist, you are also an entertainer,” McCoy said. “I enjoy that aspect of my work. I also like history, and history is also an inspiration.”

Despite living in Columbus, McCoy is involved in LaGrange’s art scene through the Visual Artists Alliance of LaGrange. She joined the group at the beginning of the year, and she says that it has already helped her find a show where she can exhibit her work.

“I’m a brand-new member, and so far, I think it has really been a great because by being a member you get a newsletter mail out, and there was something in there on the LaGrange Museum and Lamar Dodd (Art) Center show, the Second (LaGrange) Southeastern Regional show,” McCoy said. “Through that, I was able to get in that show, so I am kind of excited about that.”

The LaGrange Southeast Regional features art by citizens of West Georgia and East Alabama at the LaGrange Art Museum and the Lamar Dodd Art Center of LaGrange College.

The show will open on Feb. 16 and run through April 20. McCoy’s sculpture, “The Wheels of Justice,” is set to be displayed at the exhibit.