Inspired by the mountains and the landscapes she explores, the work of Maya Carves emerges from an intuitive process where clay itself guides the form. Imperfection, understood as character and authenticity, is an essential part of her practice. Objects that invite a direct connection with nature and can now be discovered at RI HOUSE Barcelona.
HOW DID YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CERAMICS BEGIN?
All my passions in life have been linked to creative processes. Ceramics was always something I wanted to try, and the day I first touched clay I fell in love. I’ve always felt there is something ancestral in creating ceramics; many people are captivated by it. From that first day I haven’t stopped. I had been looking for something new to focus on, and I quickly decided to dedicate all my time to learning, creating, and growing. Today, I still carry the same passion and dedication.
WHERE DOES THE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR PIECES COME FROM?
I’m deeply inspired by landscapes, nature, and especially the high mountains. Climbing takes me to places full of beauty—rocks, textures, and striking colors. That’s where most of my inspiration comes from.
HOW DO YOU EXPERIENCE THE BOUNDARIES BETWEEN ART, CRAFT, AND DESIGN?
It’s interesting. Since I don’t have a classical training in the craft, my process is entirely intuitive. I don’t spend much time developing specific ideas or designs before sitting down to work. What I enjoy most is leaving space for the clay to guide me and take the form that belongs to it. I try to let the shapes emerge naturally, and then I step back, observe them, and give them a meaning that unifies the whole.
WHAT DOES IMPERFECTION MEAN TO YOU?
I’ve never been very interested in creating perfect forms, although I find it fascinating to watch someone who has mastered the craft to that level. My approach is different: I’ve always seen beauty in unique objects. It’s as if each piece had its own life, its own character and story. I also try to capture the beauty of the landscapes that inspire me in the organic and imperfect forms of the objects I create.
WHAT ARE YOU INTERESTED IN EXPLORING AT THE MOMENT?
I’m always exploring new textures. I find inspiration in the rocks I encounter when leaving the city, with all their colors and peculiarities. I observe the wild landscape and push the limits of the material, trying to discover all its possibilities. Right now, I’m also developing new finishes and glazes for the colder seasons ahead.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE PEOPLE WILL FIND IN YOUR OBJECTS?
I hope people find a connection with nature—with the ruggedness of the landscape and, at the same time, with its delicacy.
