In this episode of D’ville Voices, Mary Ann Taylor sits down with self-taught artist Cristi Frye, winner of both Best of Show and People’s Choice at the most recent EllaFair, held during Duncanville’s 2026 BloomFest.

Frye’s path to becoming a figurative sculptor began almost by accident. In 2018, while making Christmas ornaments from polymer clay, an attempt at creating a Santa face unexpectedly became an elderly woman she named Florence. That first character launched a creative journey centered on capturing the expressions, postures, and emotions of everyday people.

Working primarily with polymer clay, mixed media, and found objects, Frye explores the imperfections and shared experiences that connect us. Her sculptures invite viewers to see something familiar in her characters—and perhaps imagine the stories behind them.