Joanna, an artist with a rich background, first arrived in Kauai in 1967 and made it her permanent home in 1991. She honed her skills by studying watercolor painting at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and design at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in San Francisco. Her artistic journey also took her to Australia, where she studied ceramics under the guidance of ceramicist Judy McDermott.

In 1991, Joanna founded Banana Patch Studio, a creative hub where her art and designs come to life on ceramic pottery and tiles. Inspired by Hawaiian culture and the natural beauty of the islands, her work reflects the spirit of aloha.

The studio, housed in the beautifully restored Historic Chang Building (1926), was once a bakery and pool hall. What began as a one-woman operation has now blossomed into a team of over 20 artists. They collectively create unique tiles, pottery, and fine art. When you visit the studio in Hanapepe, you can witness these talented artists hand-painting vibrant ceramic tiles and pottery. Additionally, explore the captivating artwork of other local Kauai artists.

At Banana Patch Studio, their hand-painted Hawaiian ceramic tiles, wall plaques, clocks, and pottery are meticulously crafted with aloha, using lead-free glazes and kiln-fired to a scorching 1890°F. Notably, their photovoltaic solar panels contribute electricity to Kauai’s grid when the kilns are not in use, taking advantage of the usually sunny weather in Hanapepe.