Boss Babe Spotlight
Janna Barker is the founder and creator of isiko, a San Diego-based handcrafted goods shop that sells unique and stylish ceramics, bags, and jewelry. From her plates and planters to her bags and bowls, each piece is crafted to tell story. Inspired by her experiences living abroad and her desire to share the unique arts of other cultures, Janna uses traditional techniques and materials to create her collections. As a social good company, a portion of isiko’s proceeds are donated to a organization that supports a community in need!
I wanted to feature Janna on Glean & Glow because I think its important to support local small businesses (especially those that give back) and female boss babes who inspire others to go after their passions. I met Janna at Ceramic Heights for a photoshoot to capture her in her element. There’s something about pottery that is fascinating to watch. I loved seeing her take a formless chunk of clay and mold it into something that is useful, beautiful, unique, and special.
Keep reading for my interview with Janna and to see some of the images from our shoot!
How did you start isiko?
isiko for me was a way to combine my passions and the things I cared about into my work. I grew up in the Philippines and saw first hand extreme poverty at a very young age and knew that when I grew up I wanted to do something about it. Living overseas also gave me a love for learning about other cultures. Therefore, I ended up getting my BA in Anthropology from San Diego State University. I have always had a love of art and it has always been apart of my life in one way or another. So basically isiko for me is a combination of art, anthropology and a way to giveback to those in need.
I know you might be wondering what the anthropology part might be and that is my effort in providing a platform for traditional artists from around the world. The global products you can find at isiko are made with either traditional materials or made by traditional methods. I think it is important to keep these practices carried on by the next generation. They are beautiful parts of a culture, telling of their history and its people.
Where do you find inspiration for your pieces?
Inspiration for me comes from my travels, my love and connection to nature and the outdoors. My grandmother was also an artist and she had great style. I find that many of my ceramic pieces reflect her and how she styled her home which has a very 70’s vibe.
What’s your favorite part of the creative process?
I think my favorite part of the creative process is thinking of way that my product can be used in reality. How jewelry will be styled or how a piece of ceramics will complete a kitchen set or bring a homey feel to a living room. It’s the anticipation of how a piece will be used and loved by those who own it.
What are 3 self-care practices that important in your life?
- I find peace and a sense of being free when I am in nature, outdoors and traveling. So finding the time to spend time outside, (especially at the beach) and experiencing new places is very important for my mental well-being.
- Spending time with friends is also a way for me practice self care. I recharge my energy when I am surrounded by friends. They bring me laughter, support and push me to be a better person, a better artist and better businesswomen.
- Staying physically active is also very important for me. Whether that is climbing, yoga, surfing, riding my bike or even just taking a walk I need to get my body moving. There is always a sense of accomplishment after any such activity. Getting those endorphins released really helps in my overall holistic wellness.
What’s your website? Do you have any upcoming events?
You can find me online at www.shopisiko.com and on instagram @shop.isiko.
Starting at the end of this month through December, I will be the featured artist/small business at the North Park Communal Coffee. You can come in during all open hours to see my work and global goods in person!
I will also be at the Makers Arcade Holiday Market December 7th +8th, 2019 at the Broadway Pier.
