Meet the Makers: Q&A with Maria of MW. Ceramics

This year we've had the pleasure of stocking the beautiful work of one of our favourite artisan ceramicists, Maria Willi at MW.Ceramics. Maria's pieces are inspired by nature, and are each hand-made with love in her London studio. 

We caught up with Maria to ask her where she gets her inspiration, how she has continued to thrive throughout the challenges of 2020/21, and her tips for other young creatives.


Don't forget to scroll to the bottom for some behind-the-scenes pics of Maria's studio + links to shop! 


How did you get started in ceramics - were you always an artistic person?

I grew up in Switzerland and pottery was a hobby growing up. It wasn’t till I was in London that I was reintroduced to it by a friend, we just did a class for fun. It was there that I fell in love with the process and the possibilities there was working with clay.


What inspires you and how would you describe your aesthetic?

I love natural, organic looking work - hand crafted. I am inspired by natural shapes and colours - I found the details in leaves very independent and unique and love incorporating them into my work - Also with my passion working in floristry - it’s beautiful to combine both.


How do you style your ceramics at home, and do you have any tips for our readers?

It is beautiful to have a lovely centrepiece on a side board or table - It brings me joy seeing tableware in use when people send me photos! I use my leaves a lot for keeps gate jewellery dishes - just get creative with displaying your pieces.


Has your business changed over the last 12 months during the coronavirus pandemic?

I was pleasantly surprised actually with higher demand for handmade ceramics - it is of course worrying for everyone in such uncertain times but it really has been a bit of a boost for me and I am grateful.


What advice would you give to young creatives considering a career in ceramics or other artisan creative industries?

First of all like I did I would suggest having a handful of classes to get a feel for the pace and patience required to create some beautiful pottery through practice. In this process hopefully you develop your style. Then attract a fan base. I guess you grow from there gracefully and currently ever so much more ethically appreciating our environment. It gives me great satisfaction that people are enhancing their lifestyles with my handcrafted pottery and appreciate the labour of love I put into each piece.


Click here for MW. Ceramics on Instagram

Click here for MW. Ceramics on Etsy

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