Want art? Head to Newport.

You might see a familiar face or two at “Have We Met?” the new exhibit by Otis-based artist Sam Jacobson, now on display at the Newport Visual Arts Center.

The exhibit, housed in the Coastal Oregon Visual Artist Showcase, features a series of ceramic and mixed-media sculptures depicting human faces.

From her studio nestled in the forest of Cascade Head, “Pickled Heron Studio,” Jacobson draws inspiration from her travels, her life experiences and the natural environment in which she lives. As a clay artist, she works with slabs, not a wheel, and her works tend to be more sculptural than functional.  Her sculptures most recently have been shown at the Chessman Gallery in Lincoln City and The River Gallery in Independence.

“The human face is infinitely fascinating, whether someone I have known or just imagined,” Jacobson said. “I love how the slightest tweak can completely change the mood or dynamic of an entire face. And I especially love how the face comes alive, complete with personality and a history, as my fingers work the clay.”

A former law professor at the Willamette University College of Law, Jacobson has been working in ceramics for the past 10 years and considers herself a self-taught artist. Along the way, she has drawn knowledge from various texts, videos and her membership in the International Ceramic Artist Network.

“Have We Met?” runs through Sept. 26 at the Newport Visual Arts Center, located at 777 NW Beach Drive and is open Wednesday to Saturday, noon to 4pm. For more information go to www.coastarts.org.