M.A is a unique project that fuses artistry with traditional craftsmanship. Operating from Mexico City and collaborating with different communities across Mexico for production, the project draws inspiration from local traditions, native beliefs, and cultural knowledge. The team consists of skilled artisans in Oaxaca, Mexico, specializing in crafting ceramics and rugs. Led by Melissa Ávila, a versatile artist from Tijuana, the design team in Mexico City drives the creative vision.

Melissa is a multidisciplinary artist from Tijuana. She is also the founder of M.A. - a brand of handmade homegoods such as vases and rugs created in close collaboration with over 20 artisans from Oaxaca. She was educated in arts but never worked as a designer before. The launch of her brand was inspired by an unusual encounter with her current mentor - Paulina Encarnación Sosa - a Mazatec healer. M.A. stands for her initials but also a symbolic statement "eme-a" meaning "here I am" in Spanish.

FOUNDER: Melissa Ávila

TEAM: founder + 5 employees + 15 artisans.

LOCATION: Mexico City & Oaxaca, Mexico.

MATERIALS: Red clay & wool

M.A creates unique pieces that are handmade alongside artisans who specialize in different ancestral processes with the aim to help to preserve craftsmanship and create both opportunity and income using fair and horizontal manufacturing practices.

The clay vases are burned with the traditional open fire method in Oaxaca and painted by hand by Melissa Àvila in their design studio in Mexico City. All pieces are one of a kind.

Each rug & pillow case and rug are made on traditional pedal looms from 100% organic wool from local sheep that are loved and respected. Until one of M.A's pieces reaches you the following steps are undertaken: wool gathering, washing, carding, hand spinning, dyeing, weaving, cleaning, brushing + sewing.