We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Filar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Staying true to myself and allowing myself to shine through in my art and products has made my brand successful. My brand of humor isn’t for everyone, but the people who like my work really get it! My biggest lesson has been to be your true self and your people will find you.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My sense of humor sets me apart (I’d like to think). I love weird humor, strange goofy animals, and lots of sass and sarcasm. When I do markets, my favorite thing ever is when customers stand at my sticker wall looking and giggling at all the jokes. It makes me so so happy and validates that what I’m doing is having a positive effect. I’ve really learned to lean into making things that I personally like, things that I personally think are funny, and chances are other people will like it too. First and foremost, I’m my target audience. Anyone else who can relate is automatically welcomed to the club!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Most of my leisure time is spent thrifting or eating, so the itinerary would be based heavily on those things!

First we’d go to my neighborhood coffee spot, Sabbath Coffee in downtown Clawson. Then we’d head to downtown Royal Oak and do some shopping at Sidetrack Bookshop, Rail and Anchor, and Lost & Found Vintage. Then I’d take them to Ferndale and check out the Rust Belt market, and eat tacos at Imperial or get some food at Public House (they have a really good vegan menu!) If it’s spring/summer/fall we’d do something nature-y or check out a local plant nursery – Telly’s is a great one, and also Barson’s in Westland.
On the weekend I’d take them to Eastern Market – any time of the year is a good time to go, there’s always something in season and plenty of other shops around to peruse! The murals in the area are a must-see as well.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I couldn’t have gotten through this past year of markets without my partner, Adrian. He’s been so helpful and supportive and truly believes in me and my work – I’m so grateful to have him by my side.

Website: www.5eyestudio.com

Instagram: instagram.com/5eyestudio

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