In 2024, Paola illustrated her first children’s book, “Luca and the Moth,” a modern fable about habitat conservation and the survival of endangered species by author Barbara Kelly. Set in the Australian rainforest, the story follows young Luca and the rare Pink Underwing Moth, brought to life through Paola’s hand-painted watercolour illustrations.
"Mar de Vida" (Sea of Life)
Paola’s featured artwork blends the vibrant colours and patterns of her Mexican heritage with the natural beauty of her adopted home, Australia. At the centre glides a humpback whale, surrounded by its ocean companions, a playful dolphin, a curious octopus and a gentle sea turtle. Together, they transform Ever Vessel’s simple modern glass bottle into an ocean story filled with colour and movement.
Meet the Artist: Paola Castro
Born in Mexico and now based in Australia, Paola Castro is an illustrator and graphic designer whose work links nature, culture, and vivid colours. After moving to Australia more than a decade ago, Paola shifted from advertising and design to teaching and freelance art. Paola draws inspiration from the rich ceramics, textiles, and embroidery of Mexico, weaving these influences into her illustrations.
A Brush Between Worlds
While Paola’s style for our collaboration draws from traditional Mexican art motifs, known for their bold hues and rhythmic patterns, her other art style love is watercolour.
Beyond Paper to the Seas
Beyond paper, Paola also brings her distinctive style to the ocean itself, transforming surfboards into art canvases filled with coral and sea animals.
More examples of Paola’s work can be viewed on her Instagram page.
The Flow of Art and Yoga
As a yoga teacher, Paola has a passion for connecting people of all ages through movement, meditation, and community. Paola loves crafting creative and empowering sequences to challenge the mind and the body, as well as for gentle and restorative practices that ground and calm.
Why put art on a bottle?
When we asked Paola initially why she wanted her art on a transparent glass water bottle, she explained that “A bottle is often beside you and there when you need a break. A beautiful artwork makes a beautiful water bottle, making those little moments a little better.”
We couldn’t agree more. At Ever Vessel, we believe design should meet you in those small, everyday moments.
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