a little bit about JAJA

( JA-Julie Austin )

Nestled in a small studio on beautiful Vancouver Island, my handmade pottery brings a touch of whimsy to the everyday. Each piece is crafted with care, blending playful design with functional form. From mugs that make you smile to flowers and insects for the garden, my ceramics celebrate the charm and magic of slow-made art. This pottery is rooted in nature and inspired by imagination.

My studio is messy — and the creative process can be slow and meditative, or chaotic and fun. When I'm throwing on the wheel, clay spews everywhere. When I'm building from slabs, I'm constantly searching for just the right tool.

No matter the weather — sunny and warm or rainy and cold — my studio grounds me. The little problems in life seem to disappear.

Of course, that means no talk radio. That’s just inviting negative vibes. Instead, I crank up my playlist and get to work.

Creating with Amanda

Sometimes I need company. Enter Amanda, an artist of unlimited talent. She is an up-cycler extraordinaire. What most people throw out or push into the back of a drawer, she uses as inspiration for any number of beautiful art pieces.

Her and I collaborate on the Barking Owls and the mosaics.