Conversations with Maggie Lee

Today we’d like to introduce you to Maggie Lee. 

Hi Maggie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve been creating art since I can remember, always loving to draw as a kid and I still love it as an adult! Around middle school is when I started to draw more consistently. Maybe a bit too consistently as I would get in trouble in class (even though it helped me focus). As I got older, I knew you could sell your art but I never thought It was something I’d be able to do. Once I realized I could, and people actually enjoyed my art I started with commissions. I enjoyed it, and it was nice to have a little something on the side even if I didn’t take them as often. Now at the age of 22, I’ve started to sell my prints and I love it because while I enjoy creating something personal for each person, I love being able to create what I want to create and share it with others. The joy it gives me to see people loving and admiring my art fills my heart. I couldn’t have done it without my loved ones believing in me, or me believing in myself. Being confident in yourself (even despite imposter syndrome) and what you put out can be a really big key. When you’re your own fan it makes the other parts just a little easier. Lately, I’ve been shifting some of my energy into my portfolio, as I want to get into tattooing and be an apprentice. I feel strong in my ability to do so and it gives me butterflies to think about that part of my life coming so soon. While I still feel like I’m at the beginning of my journey, I’m so glad to be taking the path that feels built for me. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I think with anything there’s struggles. Whether it be from outside forces or just myself. Imposter syndrome seems to be big in the art community and it can affect me as well. When I get invited to things, or this interview as an example there’s a possibility, I’m asking myself “why me?”. But I try to remind myself I was chosen for a reason. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I love to create art whether it’s on a canvas or digital. Lately, it’s been mostly all digital. I use procreate for the iPad and I highly recommend it. Drawing women seem to be a favorite of mine. it’s either that or florals especially in illustration styles. Landscapes also take a special spot even if I don’t do them as much. One of the things I’m most proud of was at my first art pop-up (Thank you Stevie and Madelife!) I was able to sell out of all my originals and sell out of a daisy print I had! I was so happy I cried in the bathroom later. As for what sets me apart from others is probably the way I color and my compositions. That tends to be what I get the most complimented on anyways. I love vibrant things in life, and I love having color and things flowing together. I take a lot of pride in that part of my art especially, so when someone notices that as well, my heart swells! 

What makes you happy?
Many things make me happy. I try to be a happy person. I feel like art is the obvious one. My family, my friends, my partner all make me very happy. The little things too and I try to find the love and warmth in anything. It’s just nicer to live that way. I could list all the things that make me happy, but that might take a while. 

Pricing:

• $100+ for commisions
• $25 for 8.5×11 prints
• $15 for 5×7 prints

Contact Info:

• Email: maggielee331@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magpie331_art/