Muse Art School’s creative creature comfort 

Liz Nicholls

Sculptor, mum & tutor Maísa Stolz tells us about her artistic journey, from Brazil to Abingdon, plus her Beatrix Potter-inspired workshops this month

Animals have always been an inspiration for Maísa Stolz. “Growing up in Brazil, I spent weekends at my father’s small farm,” she says. “It left a lasting impression and still influences my art today. Many of my sculptures feature animals, the connection between humans and nature. 

“Since moving to Abingdon, I’ve fallen in love with the local wildlife. I’m especially fascinated by the sheep in the fields, little hedgehogs, rabbits and the robins that visit our garden.” 

As well as being mum to two energetic girls, Maísa is an artist, sculptor and art educator whose journey started in her motherland where she taught art and fashion to people from vulnerable communities. Resources were often limited, so she found creative ways to use cheap, recycled, natural materials, an ethos she continues today.  

Maísa’s Muse Art School workshops – at Unit 25 in Abingdon’s Bury Street – offer fun, hands-on classes where you can transform recycled materials into charming characters, £15pp a week, including all materials. During May, 1-2pm every Thursday, she’ll lead Beatrix Potter-themed classes. “I live in Peachcroft, and we’ve called this town home for about four years,” says Maísa. “Moving here with my family was one of the best decisions we made. Here we find good friends, a kind neighbourhood, and a friendly school for our children. I love the peace of the countryside, it’s such a contrast to busy city life. And I adore the light here. On sunny days, when everything seems bathed in golden light, it feels magical. 

“I love browsing local charity shops! There’s something special about giving objects a second life, finding hidden treasures, knowing you’re helping others and reducing waste. It’s like a little adventure each time – and very much in line with how I approach art, turning overlooked materials into something beautiful. I’m a big fan of pubs with a good garden. I love enjoying a cider at The Nag’s Head, right by the river. It’s the perfect spot to unwind.” 

Maisa is excited to keep building The Muse Art School, setting up more classes, meeting new people in the community, making a positive difference. She’s happy to hear from schools who might like to run after-school sculpture clubs and welcomes collaborative projects related to sustainability and recycling. She also plans to launch a class for young Portuguese speakers. 

She adds: “As I say at The Muse: create, connect, inspire. That’s what I hope people feel when they join. My wish for the world would be for people to recognise God’s presence in their lives and feel grateful for the incredible gift life is. We can all look at each other, realise how alike we are and do our best for each other.” 

You can browse Maisa’s sculptures in Burford Art Gallery’s shop & find out more about her own work at maisastolz.com. You can email her on themuseartschoolox@gmail.com