Janneke de Jong

How it begins…

Three years ago, I was in @cowlingandwilcox admiring greeting cards. My usual chat-with-a-stranger self couldn’t help but start a conversation with Janneke and Rick who were also looking at cards. I was super enthusiastic. Janneke was in a bit of a shy mood. And Rick was cheerleading that Janneke was a creative who makes cards! And, in that moment, I found my cheerleader. 

Janneke was the first one on this journey with me. The first person to say, “Yes” to participating and the one to applaud this project. I am forever grateful. Stay tuned for the podcast… 

So, today, day one, meet Janneke de Jong, a ceramicist and friend. This super-talented woman is from The Netherlands and lives in London. She is based at Turning Earth in North London and creates small collections of feel-good ceramics, with a focus on handmade items, one-offs and limited runs. Check out her stuff.

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On Forever Applaud

Janneke shared, “I like how there are so many different aspects to just two words… On one hand it’s about always applauding yourself – self love, being positive about your work, getting it out there, doing more, etc. On the other hand, it’s like a chain of applause and positivity for one another to connect, motivate and push each other to do good stuff. Also, if you are trying to create things you will always be proud of, there will be things that you aren’t proud of. That’s important, too. That’s where you learn.”

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One piece of advice

Janneke shared, “Be grateful, be compassionate, be vulnerable. Allow yourself to be a beginner. Social media and talent shows make life look easy. But most things take a lot of trying, failing and growth – and growth is what makes life worth it.”