Meet the Maker Series: Maggie Johnson of Magg Daddy
We love hearing artists share their processes. In this month's Meet the Maker series we shine the spotlight on one of our very own Stackwood studio residents, Maggie Johnson - the brains behind @Magg_Daddy. We sat down with Maggie ahead of her collaboration with Stackwood Supply to find out what makes her tick and where she finds her inspiration and passion for her creative process.
Maggie takes inspiration from her surroundings, inspired by getting out of her comfort zone and delving into memories of travelling adventures. She often features facades and landmarks from her own neighbourhood of Fremantle.
How did you first get into art?
My first memory of getting into art was when I started attending a class once a week after school with Perth artist Jo Stone. I still use so many of the techniques and tips she taught me when I was 10 or 11 years old and I’ve passed some of these on to the students I teach now.
How did you find your style?
I was on a long 7-month trip with my partner travelling through places like southeast Asia, Sri Lanka and Mexico. We ended up spending a lot of time people-watching and drawing at cafes. This was when I started to really enjoy drawing and developing my own way of viewing the world. I always take a little sketchbook with me wherever I go now because ideas are literally everywhere. I think this is a great way for anyone to develop their style.
Who are your artistic influences?
There are honestly too many artists that I admire to name and they range from artists such as Louise Bourgeois who was and remains a great figure in the world of modern art, to my close friends that are hustling every day to pursue their passions and put incredible art out into the world.
What do you do when you are not doing this?
So many things! When I’m not teaching painting or screen printing, you can find me in my studio space at Stackwood, swimming, running, at yoga, hanging with my nephews, drinking coffee, making coffee at Higher Grounds, or a recent addition to this list, climbing at Portside Boulders.
What do you like about Stackwood?
Stackwood is like a big family. I love coming to my little studio and leaving each day having had at least one inspiring conversation with another person that creates in the space.
Where do you hope to be in 5 years time?
I have big hopes and dreams for my brand ‘Magg Daddy’ and I hope to grow that over the next few years, possibly into a shop front/studio space that I can sell various products and paintings out of.
Tell us what your fav plant is?
My favourite plant I have now is my peace lily, I love the lush green leaves and just how easily pleased she is with a drink.
How would you rate yourself as a plant parent?
I am probably a 6/10 plant parent
I take good care of my indoor plants, but my outdoor plants get a bit neglected - I love a good low maintenance plant.
What is the style of your home interior?
I love the idea of being a minimalist, but I am truly a maximalist! I love patterns, colours, nic nacs, lots of art and pictures on the walls, vintage furniture and floor rugs. If I owned my own home, I’d want it to be the one that people point at as they drive past.
What music are you listening to right now?
Lots of nostalgic music from my childhood, artists like Ben Lee, Nora Jones and Missy Higgins are always on rotation amongst my favourite boss lady singers like Haim, Isabella Manfredi and Julia Jacklin.
What's your best creative tip?
Say out loud to yourself or to someone else good things about what you’ve created! Bring yourself up and don’t feel the need to critique everything, be your own biggest fan.
Where do you go to be inspired?
Anywhere outside of my familiar surroundings. When I get stuck in my routine I forget to take notice of what’s going on around me and I find it hard to think of new ideas. When I’m out of my comfort zone, I have new thoughts and images that pop into my mind and sometimes onto the canvas. That’s when the sketch book comes in handy!
Maggie is teaching the art of screen printing next Saturday the 13th of August. Book online to secure your place!
Her Merchandise is available online and her Stackwood Supply + Maggie Johnson T-shirts and Tea Towels are available in-store and online.
Images by Rae Fallon