Travel Inspo: Egypt

Dec 8

In celebration of our mother’s 80th birthday, my brother and I embarked on a dream journey through Egypt, our stops included Cairo, Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor, Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings. Together, we experienced the magic of Egypt's ancient wonders, creating wonderful memories along the way.

Cairo

Our first stop was Cairo where the Great Pyramid of Giza and the Egyptian Museum held us in awe with their historical significance. We savored the flavors of Egypt, enjoying traditional dishes at local restaurants from aromatic koshari to succulent grilled kebabs and flavorful falafels, our taste buds were in heaven! In Khan el Khalili bazaar, we had one of our favorite meals at famed Egyptian writer Naguib Mahfouz’s restaurant - winner of the Nobel Prize for literature in 1988. Everything was delicious. I still think about the bread and hummus.

Eusebio Ceramics Philae Temple | Exploring on the Nile — Philae Temple

Aswan

After Cairo we flew south to Aswan where we vsited Philae Temple and the engineering marvel of the High Dam. This is also where we began our cruise along on the Nile heading back north. (Bucket list. Check.)

Eusebio Ceramics Kom Ombo Temple — Kom Ombo Temple

Kom Ombo and Edfu

We explored Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to Sobek and Horus, and later the well-preserved Temple of Horus in Edfu.

Luxor and Karnak

Luxor's temples, including the grand Karnak Temple connected by the Avenue of Sphinxes, transported us to the grandeur of ancient Egypt. Walking among the grand statues during the Call to Prayer took me back to a very special moment in Fez, Morocco.

Valley of the Kings

Here, we visited the pharaohs' tombs, including the renowned resting place of Tutankhamun, a lasting tribute to their enduring legacy. Despite having only one afternoon to explore, it became clear that even a year would barely scratch the surface of this remarkable place. Our photos did not do them justice.

We were incredibly fortunate to be guided by Aziz, an Egyptologist who was knowledgeable, passionate, and patient. By the end of our trip, he had become more than a guide; he had become a friend, and our connection continues to this day.

Eusebio Ceramics Valley of the Kings in a hot air balloon

Echos of Egypt

Several months after returning from my trip to Egypt, I felt inspired to start a project influenced by the experience. The handbuilt vessel featured below is titled Giza. First, I created a plaster mold of small pyramids. Using this mold, I produced multiple pyramids to adorn the piece. Then, I handbuilt the body using a slump mold that I also made. Finally, I glazed the charcoal clay body with a satin patina. I wanted to achieve an aged appearance reminiscent of the rich, gorgeous, sooty hues and textures found in Cairo and Giza. I am always drawn to objects that are a little wonky, weathered, and worn because they embody the history and essence of a place - tangible evidence of generations lived.

Eusebio Ceramics Giza vessel — Giza, 2023. 6.5”H x 10”W x 10”D

Midnight Opulence: A glimpse into Egypt's allure through black and gold

Midnight Opulence is another vessel inspired by our Egypt adventure. It combines shiny, reflective gold with textured, raw, black clay, capturing the contrasts found in Egyptian art and architecture. Overall, the contrasts in Egyptian art arise from a harmonious blend of boldness and subtlety, intricacy and simplicity, making it a rich and timeless visual experience.

Egyptian architecture often showcases contrast through the juxtaposition of ancient structures, such as temples and pyramids, alongside more modern architectural additions such as the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). Sadly, its much-anticipated opening was delayed and we were unable to visit.

This piece was specifically designed for Raku. I knew I could achieve the drama and contrast I wanted with this firing technique. First, I threw the base of the vessel on the wheel and then I embellished the surface with handbuilt “bricks”. Gold, revered for centuries, holds a special significance in Egyptian history. It was not only prized for its aesthetic appeal but also used to symbolize the divine and eternal. In ancient Egypt, gold was believed to have protective properties and was often incorporated into jewelry, tombs, and sacred objects.

Eusebio Ceramics Midnight Opulence Raku vessel — Midnight Opulence, 2023. Raku-fired.

Eusebio Ceramics Midnight Opulence raku process — Midnight Opulence process

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Janette Harwell

Design-driven with a global perspective, Janette Eusebio’s work is inspired by many forms of design: architecture, interior, and textile to name a few — and heavily influenced by a lifelong wanderlust that has taken her around the globe. She derives great joy from exploring the world with family and friends, continually pursuing new cultural experiences and art forms. Both her Filipino heritage and love of nature are featured prominently in her work.

Janette is particularly drawn to textures, patterns, and organic forms that have movement, which inspires pieces that are both bold and refined. Working in clay has been a meditative, grounding journey for her.

In 1990, Janette graduated with a BFA in Communication Design from Otis/Parsons, a private art and design school in Los Angeles, California. From 1990-1997 she lived and worked in New York City as a graphic designer before relocating to Phoenix, Arizona. In 2004, she founded Stir Design & Advertising, which she continues to oversee today.

Every day is a new opportunity to create. Janette is a visual storyteller who excels in capturing a sense of place, a memory, or a feeling.

https://eusebioceramics.com