Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Jones.
Hi Danielle, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
After taking a leap of faith and moving to the Sea Islands in the summer of 2023, I was inspired to create every day. I reconnected with my love for art by taking pottery classes, painting regularly, and joining an artist group to showcase my work and connect with local artists. It wasn’t long before I began displaying my art at local shows and restaurants and selling my paintings.
In March 2024, I founded The Faithful Oak, a creative studio that blends my passions for art and storytelling. Through the studio, I create pottery, paintings, and children’s books, and it also serves as a platform for offering creative experiences. That same month, I partnered with an illustrator to bring my first children’s book, The Lost Puppy Adventure, to life, which was published in August 2024.
Last year was a year of growth—establishing my business, creating pottery, writing, and painting. A major highlight was being a presenting author at the Rocket Readers Event hosted by Lowcountry Parent and Post and Courier, where I had the opportunity to share The Lost Puppy Adventure with families.
In 2025, I started teaching pottery classes on the Sea Islands, selling pottery at local venues, and began building partnerships with local businesses. I’m working on the second book in my children’s series, set to be released this summer. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m excited to continue sharing my creative passion with others—whether through teaching, offering my art, or telling stories.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Overall, it’s been a pretty smooth road. Once I started creating regularly, one thing led to another, and my business began to take off on its own. I have to say, the Charleston Sea Islands community has been incredibly warm and welcoming. People here are so encouraging and supportive, always offering to help. The art community in the Charleston area is growing and what I love most is how open people are to share ideas and collaborate. It’s made this journey feel even more fulfilling, knowing that I’m surrounded by such a generous and inspiring group of people!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a creator at heart. I specialize in handbuilt pottery and my ceramic egg trays have become a local favorite here on the Sea Islands! I also create colorful abstract and textured paintings designed to bring vibrancy to homes and businesses. In addition to fine art, I write children’s books that explore themes of teamwork, inclusivity, and raise awareness about being deaf and the importance of sign language. Whether through pottery, painting, or storytelling, my work aims to foster connection and offer meaningful experiences.
What I’m most proud of is how I’ve built a creative presence from the ground up, especially after moving to a new place. Before relocating, I was leading a nonprofit as an executive director and made the bold decision to pivot into a completely new career. I’m grateful for the relationships I’ve built along the way and for the opportunity to share my art in ways that resonate with others. It brings me joy to know that even the smallest piece of my work can spark a connection or add a bit of beauty to someone’s day. It’s not just about the art or stories—it’s about how they bring people together and make a positive impact in their lives.
What sets me apart is the unique combination of my business leadership experience and the lessons I’ve learned as a homeschooling mom and parentpreneur. Patience and flexibility have become second nature, and I approach both my work and interactions with others through the lens of servant leadership—focused on helping others grow, embracing life’s unpredictability, and responding with grace when challenges arise.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My biggest piece of advice is to embrace the journey and trust that every step, even the missteps, plays a part in your growth. It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of perfection or compare yourself to others, but what I’ve learned is that the process itself is just as valuable as the end result. Take risks, make mistakes, and be kind to yourself during the ups and downs—those moments often lead to the biggest breakthroughs.
One thing I did understand early on, from my previous work with filmmakers, is the importance of community. In the creative space, collaboration and connection are vital. Don’t be afraid to reach out, ask for help, and share your story. Whether it’s through partnerships, mentorship, or simply being open to new ideas, the right community can help elevate your work in ways you never imagined.
And most importantly, remember to keep God at the center of everything you do. Trust Him to guide your journey, knowing that the path won’t always be a straight line, and that’s okay. With faith, persistence, and trust in God’s plan, you’ll make your impact in the world. Stay true to your vision, keep showing up, and let God lead the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thefaithfuloak.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaithfuloak/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/humbledanielle/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/daniellejones
