Business Details
35 Years
experience
Handcrafted Hawaiian Ceramics Since 1991
Founded in 1991 by artist Joanna Carolan, Banana Patch Studio has become a cornerstone of Kauai's artistic community. Our team of over 20 skilled artists creates hand-painted ceramic pottery, tiles, and fine art inspired by Hawaiian culture and island landscapes. Each piece is meticulously crafted using lead-free glazes and fired in solar-powered kilns at our historic Hanapepe studio. We showcase original designs by local Kauai artists, blending traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics. Our commitment to sustainability extends to our photovoltaic solar panels that contribute energy to the local grid.From functional tableware to decorative wall plaques, our collection captures the spirit of aloha through vibrant, handcrafted designs. Visitors can observe our artists at work in our studio, located in the restored Historic Chang Building. We offer both retail products and custom order services, including personalized wedding tiles and pet bowls. With over three decades of experience, we combine artistic expertise with eco-conscious practices to create unique, high-quality ceramics. Our work reflects a deep respect for Hawaiian traditions while embracing modern innovation in ceramic arts.
Services
Ceramic Pottery
Custom Tiles
Art Classes
Wedding Gifts
Wall Plaques
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- 30+ years creating authentic Hawaiian-inspired ceramics
- Eco-friendly production using solar-powered kilns
- Showcasing local Kauai artists' original designs
- Custom order capabilities for special occasions
- Historic studio offering immersive artistic experience
Services
Hand-Painted Pottery
Our hand-painted ceramics feature original Hawaiian designs on plates, mugs, and bowls. Each piece uses lead-free glazes fired at 1890F for durability. Perfect for daily use or special occasions, these items bring island aesthetics to any home.
Custom Wedding Tiles
Create personalized 6" ceramic tiles for weddings featuring Hawaiian blessings or custom designs. These lasting mementos showcase our artists' skill in combining traditional motifs with personal elements for couples' special day.
Ceramic Workshops
Learn pottery basics or create custom pieces in our Hanapepe studio. Classes include Sushi Plate Workshop, Handbuilding Basics, and Ceramic Jewelry Basics. All materials and expert guidance provided for creating unique, fired ceramic items.
People
Joanna Carolan
Founder
Joanna founded Banana Patch Studio in 1991 after studying ceramics in Australia and design in San Francisco. Her work combines Hawaiian culture with contemporary art, creating unique ceramic pieces that reflect Kauai's natural beauty.
Questions
What materials do you use for your ceramics?
We use lead-free glazes and fire our ceramics at 1890°F in solar-powered kilns for durable, eco-friendly products.
Can I customize wedding gifts?
Yes, we offer custom wedding tiles and mugs with personalized Hawaiian designs or blessings for special occasions.
Do you offer art classes?
We provide ceramic workshops including handbuilding basics, sushi plate creation, and jewelry making with expert guidance.
Are your products eco-friendly?
Our studio uses solar-powered kilns and sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact while creating beautiful ceramics.
Videos
Reviews (6)
George James
Jun 07, 2021
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Unique artwork. Beautiful. Friendly staff. Reasonable prices! A must stop while you are in Hanalei!
Rosemary Spence
May 16, 2021
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I originally posted a description of 2 prints I ordered. I was very disappointed with the quality and gave 2 stars. I was stunned at the quality as I have gone to both stores and purchased online and have always had lovely products. After I posted my negative experience, I was contacted by the store and they offered a refund or 2cresend a new order. I contacted them today for the refund. This kind of customer service is more in line with previous store experience s. Thank you for working to fix this. ALOHA.
Kathy T.
May 14, 2021
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We stopped here again & the name seems to have changed to The Taro Patch. Not much pottery since the studio in Hanapapa has been closed. But they do have many other things.
Steffany Rodriguez
Apr 17, 2021
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I called the Aloha Spice Company but was directed here instead. I was looking for a specific tea that my fianc bought while we were there a couple years ago. One of the women working there (I wish I remembered her name!) was so helpful! She called the other side of the island for me and told me they were out of stock but messaged me awhile later because she was able to track down one of the shops that sold the tea so that I could order it!! I really appreciated the time and effort she put in to help!
Taehee Choi
Feb 16, 2021
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Loved so many things at this place. One thing, due to covid, they open at certain time which is different from Google. So better making a call before you head out. (Hanapepe one is closed for the time being)
Jamie W.
Feb 21, 2020
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Lovely items throughout the store. Very organized and clean. Lots of different types of items to peruse Wonderful help too.