DESIGNxRI

For ceramic artists Francisco Rocha Salazar and Jasper Isaac Johns, collaboration is at the center of everything they create. Together, the duo forms Studio FraJas, a practice that blends ceramics, painting, architecture, and historical decorative traditions into richly patterned vessels that feel both ancient and contemporary. In the latest DxRI Dispatch, DESIGNxRI connects with Francisco and Jasper to discuss their work and their experience with DESIGN WEEK RI. Swipe to learn a bit more about Studio FraJas, and visit https://www.designxri.com/studio-frajas/ for the full scoop!

We’re proud to share DESIGNxRI’s 2025 Annual Report and celebrate what your support made possible this past year. Because of your generosity, DESIGNxRI was able to strengthen Rhode Island’s design sector by supporting small businesses, expanding access to professional development opportunities, and creating spaces for designers and communities to connect, learn, and grow together. Visit https://www.designxri.com/about-us/annual-report-2025/ to check out the full 2025 Annual Report!

What does it take to bring a product from idea to reality- and how does that process shift depending on where and how it’s made? Find out at our upcoming Clambake: Creative Conversations on June 17th from 6-8PM at Moniker Brewery! Join us for a dynamic evening of short talks and conversation as we unpack the realities of bringing products to life, from the workshop to the global marketplace with Adam Dau and Lukas Scheurer. Save the date! Registration opens soon at https://www.designxri.com/programs-and-events/creative-conversations/.

Can you believe there are only three weeks left until the 2025-2026 Design Catalyst Showcase? We can't wait to see you at Innovate Newport on May 27th from 5:30-8PM for this incredible display of Rhode Island design talent. Come meet the 16 2025-2026 Design Catalyst Program participants and learn more about their work. In the meantime, swipe for some behind-the-scenes shots of three of our participants: M Arida, Muffy Brandt, and Mia Schon of Mosaic with Mia. Don't miss out -- registration is open now at the link in bio!