One of the things I love most about the online world is learning about artists and creative business owners with whom I might never cross paths.  I have gotten to admire the work of people who are wildly creative and make amazing works of art out of paper, paint, clay, metal, and more.  It’s inspiring to see their work, how they conduct their business, and how they continue to produce while nurturing their artistic voice.  One of the artists I tripped over on Instagram is the ceramicist and surface artist Maryfrances Carter.

(All of the photos in this post are used courtesy of Maryfrances Carter.)

When you see her work, you’ll understand why I was drawn to it.  Her predominately blue and white color palette attracted my eye right away along with her designs that feel both traditional and fresh.  Her flagship product is coffee mugs that are offered individually or as a subscription.  Maryfrances also makes vases, bowls, boxes, decorative bows, Christmas ornaments, Easter eggs, and other vessels and decorative pieces.

Maryfrances lives and works in Hickory, North Carolina, and balances it all with a husband and four kids!  She’s always loved artistic pursuits, sketching, and painting.  The process of transforming a lump of clay into a functional and beautiful finished piece is what attracted her to creating ceramics and it’s clear it’s a perfect medium to display her design aesthetic.  I’m always excited to see what she’s up to next.  In her collections, there is a nice balance of a recognizable style and a push towards new designs.

These little Greek-inspired vases, for example, stay within her typical blue-and-white palette, but the design feels like a small step in a new direction.

I also adored these simple tureens that feel like something you might find at a market in Provance.

The first piece I bought from Marylfrances was a Christmas ornament.  Since she releases a collection each year, I decided I would start collecting one handmade ornament from her each year.  I was especially taken with her collection inspired by the Nutcracker.  Isn’t the cardboard theatre with her handmade ornaments delightfully charming? I bought the swan as my yearly ornament last year.

This year, I completely missed the release of her newest Christmas ornament collection, but I was able to snag a straggler in January so I didn’t miss a year!

While her specialty is ceramics, Maryfrances also designs and sells prints and wallpaper.  I am always so inspired by what she shares and I hope you are, too.  You can follow Maryfrances on Instagram HERE and check out her website HERE.