Maker Profiles: Mavis of Tochi Creative
Mavis of Tochi Creative recently participated in ADC's Special Maker Marketplace. As a talented maker who juggles a full-time corporate career, family life, and her art practice, Mavis answered three quick-fire questions about how she manages to find balance.
You currently work as a full-time Program Manager at Canva. How do you balance a corporate job and your ceramics business?
Balancing a full-time corporate role, a ceramics business, and family life is all about structure and intention. I dedicate one evening a week for focused studio time, weekends for glazing and prep, and use pockets of time—like my kids’ after-school activities—for business admin or social media. Work stays within work hours, family time is sacred, and ceramics is my creative escape. It’s not always easy, but time management, discipline, and the support of my family help make it work.
Are there any similarities between your corporate role and managing a creative business?
Surprisingly, yes! As a Program Manager, I rely on structure, efficiency, and strategic thinking—skills that also help me manage my ceramics business. Running a creative business means setting my own path, making decisions without a roadmap, and constantly learning. My PM role keeps me disciplined and productive, while my ceramics practice makes me a more lateral thinker and helps me embrace uncertainty. The two worlds challenge me in different ways, but together, they make me a more well-rounded maker and professional.
Tochi Creative, 2025. Photo: COTA.
Where do you see your creative practice leading you in the future?
Tochi Creative started as a passion, but it has become a platform for growth, connection, and storytelling. I want to continue refining my craft, sharing my work, and inspiring others who are balancing careers, creativity, and life. I don’t have a fixed destination, but I know I’ll keep evolving—just as I have over the past six years. For now, I’ll keep shaping, learning, and letting the journey unfold.
Thanks Mavis!
To learn more about Tochi Creative, visit their website below:
Tochi Creative, 2025. Photo: COTA.