My name is Melissa Paxton but everyone calls me Meli, I am the maker, designer and one woman force behind Muddy Heart

15 years ago my husband Steve, our baby doggy Chloe and I moved from Miami to North Carolina, we were seeking a slower pace of life. Although I had worked with clay as a small child, selling my terracotta doll sculptures to all who would buy them, it wasn't until many moons later that I would rekindle a love for clay I didn't know was missing. I joined a local art studio where I learned the basics and taught myself the beauty of handbuilt ceramics and have been evolving as an artist and a human being ever since

My design inspiration comes from vintage objects, historical pottery, modern design and my worldly travels . My pieces are unique, with a minimal aesthetic and utilitarian function , My intent behind each design is Timeless Beauty + Function

I craft each piece by hand, using age-old techniques and a myriad of tools to achieve a beautiful, perfectly imperfect object that contains my love and care each step of the way

I believe that slow, intentional designs that are carefully crafted to last many lifetimes deserve love and space in our homes. Living consciously is about focusing on Quality Vs. Quantity, when you value the maker, the designs and the process it takes to create the objects you love, you tend to connect more with the goods that make your life richer and more enjoyable

I can't wait to create something truly unique just for you!, thank you for taking the time to get to know me and my process!

Xox , Meli