ABOUT MARIA
Maria was born and raised in Moscow, Russia. She attended Queens University of Charlotte, where she majored in Studio Art and later discovered a love for Graphic Design. It was during her time at Queens that she was introduced to ceramics, sparking a deep interest in both functional and sculptural work. Through courses in wheel throwing, handbuilding, and surface design, she developed her voice in clay and began exploring how playful imagery and form can connect to personal and collective nostalgia.
In 2024, she founded Pawterry Studio, a small business dedicated to hand-painted ceramic gummy bears and gummy bear-themed mugs and cups — work that reflects her passion for blending humor, sweetness, and craft. Outside of Pawterry Studio, she continues to create ceramics through traditional techniques, focusing on form, texture, and surface to explore more experimental and expressive pieces. Her goal in all her work is to bring a sense of joy, wonder, and familiarity to those who interact with her art.
SERIES
2024 | Woodfired Bears
A collection of sculptural gummy bears fired in a wood kiln, allowing natural ash deposits and flame patterns to create unique, one-of-a-kind surfaces. These pieces embrace the raw, earthy side of ceramics while keeping a playful form.
2024 | Flowers of the Holy Land (hand-painted bears)
A hand-painted series inspired by botanical illustrations of flowers found in the Holy Land. Each piece is carefully detailed, combining functional forms with delicate, painterly surfaces that evoke a sense of history and storytelling.
2024 | Mini Bears
A small-scale series of bears, perfect as collectibles or small decorative pieces. These miniatures continue the nostalgic and joyful themes of my larger work, but in a more intimate and playful size.
2023 | Pottery
Outside of sculptural work, I create functional pottery using wheel throwing and handbuilding techniques. This body of work focuses on form, texture, and surface, blending utility with thoughtful design — from mugs and cups to bowls and vases.
