We had the good fortune of connecting with Maryfrances Carter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maryfrances, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Ceramics involves risk daily as an art form. Once a piece is created it must endure multiple firings before a piece can be ensured it is complete. For me, not knowing helps me paint each piece with a renewed vigor and when each piece does finish its run through the fire it is a joy to see the final work come to life!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Great things are done by a series of small things brought together. Vincent Van Gogh As an artist I hope I can convey the beauty of simplicity, but as a mother, I really love things that are functional. MC Art + Clay started from a love of both: simple beauty and function; art that we can interact with—particularly our children as they grow up. We take them to galleries and things like that to see art. But I wanted art that they could hold and touch and use and see every day. Each piece created started with my love of clean, classic designs but with a touch of whimsy. Each piece is wheel thrown and hand painted creating classic blue and white floral motifs seen on each piece I create. Prior to the pandemic I would travel to a region and create a collection inspired by the culture and patterns I saw walking about. These patterns are also created in blue and white. I love color but blue and white will always have my heart.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First, I would welcome anyone with fresh flowers! I would offer some coffee and ask how life has been going and were it had taken them most recently. Then after a nice chat we would walk downtown Hickory, NC to enjoy a delicious sandwich from a local shop “Hatch”. This is a small but charming town and a little walk after lunch would show off the quaint downtown. Depending on the interests of my friend, we would go antiquing, visit the historic potters of North Carolina, or enjoy the city bustle of Charlotte or Asheville. I love home and the quiet moments savored there. So if I had the choice, we would come home after a busy day and enjoy a delicious home cooked meal.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I thank my God for giving me hands to create, my dear husband, Jeffrey, and my family for their constant encouragement, love, and support. Also a huge “Thank you” to the incredible community on instagram that cheers and supports each collection as it is released!

Website: maryfrancescarter.com
Instagram: @maryfrances_carter
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDSar0RnV3tU2OYUb0oeN8A

Image Credits
Anna Marshall

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.