The research is dedicated to the study of the contributions of ceramic artist D. Izabel Mendes da Cunha (1924Cunha ( -2014 to Brazilian contemporary art. The formal aspects that differentiate her production and the impacts of her work as a master of artisan-artists in Santana do Araçuaí, in the Jequitinhonha Valley (MG), are contemplated. The stages of construction of a ceramic doll, a piece developed by D. Izabel, are shown with photographic records and interviews with his former apprentices. In this investigation process about D. Izabel's work and legacy, it is possible to perceive the existence of socio-cultural issues that limit the recognition of her work by the institutions that legitimize contemporary art. Thus, the need arises to situate the historical trajectory of artisanal techniques in the country and, above all, to discuss the place occupied by the artistic productions of artisans since the twentieth century.