Enchanted Living: You say that you create spirit guardians in the form of handmade ceramic animals. Can you describe what a spirit guardian is?
Janine Hardy: A spirit guardian is a mystical being, often depicted as an animal or mythical creature, that many people believe provides protection, guidance, and support throughout their lives. They’re like protective friends from myth and legend, watching over us and offering help and comfort whenever we need it. These guardians, which can be anything from a wise owl to a powerful dragon, provide a comforting reminder that we are not alone in the world, especially during times of uncertainty or fear.
EL: How do you envision people using your guardians?
JH: When people are going through difficult times, they often turn to their spirit guardians for assistance. They enjoy having reminders of these guardians nearby, whether they’re seeking advice, guidance, or simply a feeling of safety. My ceramic spirit guardians are ideal for this, as they provide comfort and support to those seeking messages or guidance from the spiritual realm. I believe people respond to my work because it has a magical vibe, radiates protective energy, and is simply lovely to have on display in a person’s home, altar, or sacred space.
EL: Is there a significance to each animal?
JH: Absolutely! In the realm of magic and spirituality, spirit animals hold special significance, each imbued with unique powers and qualities.
Owls, for example, are thought to have mystical powers because of their ability to see in the dark and their silent flight. They’re often seen as messengers from the spirit realm, bringing wisdom and guidance to those who seek it. Their mysterious nature adds to their enchanting reputation, making them symbols of intuition and spiritual insight.
Bears are revered for their power, bravery, and connection to nature. They’re seen as guardians of the wilderness and symbols of resilience and protection, and are believed to bring healing, inner strength, and the ability to face life’s challenges with grace and determination. These symbolic meanings differ across cultures, but they frequently reflect characteristics and qualities that humans admire or strive to embody. These magical companions accompany us through life, weaving their energies and wisdom into our journey, providing unwavering support along the way.
EL: You describe yourself as a pottery witch—can you tell us what that means?
JH: As a pottery witch, I’m a seeker of magic, a ceramic artist who practices both pottery and witchcraft, artfully weaving magical elements into my ceramic creations while viewing my craft as a sacred spiritual journey. Pottery holds a special” “meaning for me because it connects me with the elements of nature: earth, air, fire, and water. My craft is rooted in earth- based magic. Working with clay harvested from the earth lets me tap into its energy, infusing magic into what I create.
Each step of the pottery-making process has become a sacred ritual, from preparing the clay by hand to shaping, decorating, and firing the finished pieces. Through this practice, I channel the earth’s energy, enriching my creations with magic and spiritual meaning.
EL: How do you approach your work each morning?
JH: My morning routine shifts with the seasons. In the winter, I look for the moon in the dark skies, its silver glow a source of comfort in the cold. I light a candle, the flickering flame casting shadows across my altar and providing warmth and light in the winter darkness. But as the seasons change, so does my routine.
In the summer, I step out into the garden, cradling my cup of tea. I feel the earth beneath my feet and connect with the natural world around me. Each morning, whether under the watchful gaze of the moon or the gentle warmth of the sun’s rays, I begin my day with a ritual of connection and creativity. When I return to my studio, my spirit guardians keep watch in the early morning light, guiding my inspiration as I sketch and sculpt magical creations inspired by the enchanting world around us.
EL: And, finally, how do you stay enchanted?
JH: As a creative spirit and spellcaster, I’m guided by the moon’s wisdom and the ever-changing magic of the seasons. The natural world, forests, and folklore all weave their enchantment into my creations.
At home in my studio, I draw inspiration from the treasures I keep close by as I work. Illuminated by the soft glow of a candle flame, crystals, fir cones, and feathers found on woodland paths infuse my space with the essence of the earth’s magic. Fragments of dried flowers and shells from distant shores recall the beauty of seasons past.
When I venture outdoors to explore Mother Nature, birds in flight, a deer crossing my path with its wild, untamed spirit, and the whispered song of the wind remind me of the magic that surrounds us. I wish to share this journey as I follow my sacred path exploring the ancient art of ceramics. My quest to capture this mystical essence continues, as I transform earth’s dust into magical creations, weaving nature’s wonder into my work and crafting the most beautiful talisman for free-spirited and wild- hearted souls.
See more of Janine Hardy’s work on Instagram as well as on Etsy @wildtalisman
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