Unleash the Dragon: New Work

Written By Janette Harwell

L: Kilauea R: Hapuna

Hey everyone! I’m excited to share what’s been happening in my studio lately. I’ve been working on a brand-new series inspired by the vibrant energy of the Year of the Dragon. 🐉

The Significance of the Dragon

Did you know that the dragon is the only mythical creature in the Chinese zodiac? It stands as a potent symbol of power, prosperity, transformation, and strength. As we embrace this extraordinary symbol, it invites us to reflect on the potential for renewal and growth in our own lives. Who wouldn’t want a little extra good fortune and strength to navigate the challenges we face? The dragon’s dynamic energy encourages us to harness our creativity and ambition, making it the perfect muse for my latest work.

New Techniques and Textures

In this series, I’m not just drawing from the dragon’s energy; I’m also exploring some exciting new hand-building techniques. This allows me to create larger, more organic pieces. It’s been a fun challenge, pushing me to experiment with different forms and shapes. There’s something incredibly satisfying about shaping each piece by hand and giving it its own character.

Right now, I’m really focused on adding rich textures to my ceramic pieces. I’m especially loving a sleek, lava-like finish inspired by my recent trip to the Big Island of Hawaii. The island’s breathtaking landscapes, shaped by active volcanoes, influenced my work. The vibrant greenery and rugged volcanic rock inspired me to bring some of that dramatic beauty into my collection.

Travel Inspo: The Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island isn’t just visually stunning; it’s a place rich in culture and sustainability. This experience has encouraged me to think more deeply about the materials I use and the stories I want to tell through my art. 

The Complete Collection

The Year of the Dragon collection consists of six pieces, each adorned with unique glazes such as magma lava, sand crater, and mud crackle to achieve a deep, rich textured finish.

Top row: Kona, Hawi, Manta Bottom row: Hapuna, Thurston, Kilauea

Request price list here.

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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
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