Artist Spotlight: Joanne Wang Creativity, Sustainability, and the Heart Behind Poke House’s Art Installations
At Poke House, we believe that food isn’t the only thing that should feed our hungry customers, but art can too! That’s why we’re so excited to introduce you to Joanne Wang, the talented artist behind some of the beautiful, sustainable installations that bring warmth and personality to our spaces.
From her intricate crochet and embroidery work to large-scale, sustainable art projects, Joanne infuses everything she does with creativity, care, and a deep respect for the natural world.
Meet Joanne
We interviewed Joanne to get more insight on how she started working with Poke House. What started off as a mere interest by our CEO, became artistic collaboration at our locations!
Getting To Know Joanne
We asked Joanne some additional questions to get more insight on what she loves to do and what she is currently working on:
What are your favorite things to do in your spare time?
I am pretty much always making something, so when I'm not working on Poke House projects, I'm likely crocheting or embroidering! I also love cooking, hanging out with friends, yoga, and spending time outdoors
Where do you draw inspiration from when working on projects?
Most of my inspiration is drawn from patterns, shapes, and moments found in nature. I'm also inspired by the materials (often times wood, fiber, bamboo, etc.) I work with and often spend a lot of time experimenting with ways to push the boundaries of any given material. I prioritize sustainability and creative reuse in my projects, so I'm always trying to find processes that minimize material waste as well.
What are some projects you are currently working on?
I'm currently working on an installation for the Santa Rosa location (opening soon!). I'm also working on an art installation in partnership with Recology for the Children's Museum of Sonoma County (also in Santa Rosa!)
Where do you see yourself in the future?
I hope to be doing what I'm doing now, but with more time to work on some personal art projects! I've also been getting more into upcycled/sustainable fashion design and would love to be doing more of that in the future.
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to do what you do?
Never underestimate the power of word of mouth and in-person connections. Most of my clients (Poke House included) have been connections made in-person. Tell everyone around you about the projects you are working on and things you would like to do, and you'd be surprised at what opportunities will pop up! I think we often default to the internet and social media for
connection these days, but it is a lot easier to be remembered after an in-person interaction.
Joanne’s Vision
Below you can see Joanne’s work at some of our current locations and projects she has done.
Connect with Joanne
Want to connect with Joanne? Check her out here:
Website: www.joannewang.studio
Instagram: @joanneisthewang
At Poke House, we’re honored to collaborate with artists like Joanne who share our values of creativity, community, and sustainability. The next time you visit one of our locations, take a moment to appreciate the art around you. It’s more than décor, it’s a reflection of the aloha spirit we strive to share every day.
