Ceramicist Megan Leihgeber’s Pieces Epitomize Serenity and Minimalist Class

By Jillian Mitchell

Megan revels in the feeling of muddy hands and connecting with the earth through her craft. Her untainted, naturally lovely ceramic home goods include dinnerware, lighting, and decor. Each piece evokes all the chic, artisanal feels, and we’re here for it!

She started Maya Blu in 2018, selling her items in local shops around Austin, and online. These days, Megan spins her creations from her very own, very darling backyard studio, which she designed and built herself!

Take a peek into her self-starting world of creativity and simple beauty:

Tell us about your business! 

I named Maya Blu after my blue-eyed Weimaraner. Ceramics began as a hobby I was good at until my boyfriend’s mom gifted me a used potter’s wheel. My parents passed down a pile of broken-down kiln parts that had been sitting in their garage for ten years. I collected these ceramics business assets out of kismet, so I was determined to make something beautiful from it. 

How do you stay inspired + avoid creative ruts?

Sifting through interior design books inspires me. I feel a spark of fire inside when I find great architecture and interior design from around the world. 

Favorite song(s) for boosting creativity?

Freefallin’ Dreams – Katuchat Remix on repeat.

How does creativity bring goodness to your life?

My mom and sisters are highly creative. They each have businesses in fashion design: woveninkbylauren.com, jewelry, and art: strandedbyyl.com, and videography: @littleleihgeber on Instagram. The creative bond we share is so special and inspiring. We’re all on this journey together. 

Do you have a product or project you’re proudest of?

My pendant lights! I’ll be working on more designs for lamps, wall hooks, and drawer pulls, which I’m also excited about.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A film score composer (like Jack Black’s character in The Holiday). Also, a Disney princess! I wanted to do voice-overs for animated films.

What do people NOT know about what you do?

That it takes about two weeks to make one pot by hand!

What made you decide to start making ceramics?

I fell in love with it in high school! I competed in statewide art competitions. I found a way to have three art periods in a row during my senior year just so I could spend most of the day on the wheel. 

What inspired you to build your own studio?

Finding affordable studio space in Austin is a challenge, and they rarely had everything on my “must-have” list. Instead of spending money renting a place I didn’t love, I decided to use it for a space I dreamed up, and also to be close to home. 

What’s your favorite part of your studio space?

The roof! It has a 10/12 pitch, so there’s a ton of headspace and room for a storage loft.

Where do you go when you need a break?

I drive through the hill country. 

Let’s be real, what’s the hardest or most frustrating thing about what you do?

I can’t speed up time! The process is very slow, and sometimes I wish I could have items ready for my clients immediately.

Have you ever considered throwing in the towel? What stopped you?

Yes! Whenever I have a “what am I doing with my life” moment, I think about when I first started and how much I’ve grown as a person and as a business. I used to race home from my day job so I could throw pots in my kitchen. Reminding myself of that freeing feeling, lights my fire to keep going. 

“Reminding myself of that freeing feeling, lights my fire to keep going.”

Favorite way to celebrate a job well done? 

A yummy spread from Central Market. Wine, cheeses, meat, bread.. the works!

Follow Megan’s journey on Instagram at @mayabluceramics and browse her site MayaBlu.com.