We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Megan Badger a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Megan, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
As a studio artist, I keep my creativity alive by staying curious and accepting new challenges that add to the building and structure of my ever-growing artistic journey. This can range from internal desires (typically dark or outrageously silly), entertaining discussions/opportunities, and embarking on new adventures found in nature. All of which jumpstart my momentum for feeling and inspiration.
Art is a powerful tool when an idea may be too complex for an individual to fully describe in words (or what the ‘internet police’ may deem as “inappropriate” and take down). What I find beautiful, and oddly comforting, is having finally developed an illustrative style where my ideas can be molded and twisted *just* enough to convey my thoughts without repercussion– or much, anyway.
Part of the joy in creating art is sharing it with people that might relate or take away something completely unintended. The important aspect, and personally most cherished, is the fact that someone took a moment to pause, process, and develop an interpretation of a beloved idea I wanted out in the universe. We live in a world with so much desire for instant gratification, that we may occasionally forget how refreshing it is to actually have our own internal gears move.
This world, the people, and the wild ideas upon its surface are magical to me and, if I can help ignite a spark in any aspect, my will to create shall not cease in its progression.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
My name is Megan Badger, a Fantastic Art Illustrator based in Saint Louis, Missouri. After recovering from Guillain-Barré syndrome in 2011 (a very rare condition in which the immune system attacks the nerves, paralyzing the body), I have embraced a different interpretation, and perhaps greater appreciation for life, acknowledging the limited time we have on Earth. When one loses the ability to walk, feel, and communicate clearly– elements so vital to life– the recovery process is unique while understanding that there is not a cure. Living with that reality, I strive to live life to its fullest and challenge others to do the same through my artwork. It is how I cope with the unpredictability of the world and offer insight resulting from my experiences.
Influenced by Shel Silverstein’s playful illustrations and Albrecht Dürer’s studious attention to detail, I create thought-provoking and mythical-like narratives via stippling, a process that utilizes numerous dots to produce an image, with fine-tip ink pens. This technique does not cease to remind me of patience—a virtue that, over time, has found a place alongside my work. Our time is short; be vulnerable, invite criticism, and, most importantly (as cliché as it may be)—live.
Utilizing significant detail combined with tension in space, I ignite intimate narratives inspired by my candid exchanges with strangers during my travels. Each work reveals a plot without exposing the finale. As such, audiences are more prompted to stop and analyze what is happening. I want viewers to walk away with something—may it be enlightenment or their umpteenth eye-roll for the day.
The subjects in my artwork tend to be isolated while containing tedious detail. While they physically represent that, each design relates to myself and the internal existence of how I feel living in a world where people who are homeless do not get enough attention or care. Communities live without clean water. And the popularity contest of social media overwhelms people and their entire existence.
I graduated with a BS in Studio Art from the University of Southern Indiana, while holding solo and group exhibitions throughout southern Indiana, including The Dapper Pig, the McCutchan Art Center, PG, Penny Lane Coffeehouse, and Sortie. My designs have been featured at the Azarian McCullough Art Gallery in Sparkill, NY, the Mail Art Project (Hope, Faith and Love) by Susanne Schumacher in Hanover, Germany, Saint Louis Art Museum’s Well + Green Newsletter May 2021 edition, VoyageSTL, Canvas Rebel, and Artistonish Magazine Issue #37.
Since moving to Saint Louis five years ago, I had the opportunity to be an international Art Dealer, an English teacher living abroad in Thailand, and now find myself back in the city with a strong ambition to support artists and local businesses to reach their full potential.
Most recently, my work has been featured at Art Saint Louis, St. Louis Artists’ Guild, Soulard Art Gallery, Cherokee Print Bazaar, and at Tom Hück’s Annual Holiday Sale. My artwork is available at the Jacoby Arts Center in Alton, Illinois and will soon be displayed at Soulard Art Gallery in Saint Louis, Missouri. This year, I will have a solo exhibition at The Gogh-Getters in Edwardsville, Illinois and encourage folks to come to the reception on July 12th (details will be announced via Facebook and Instagram). It’s going to be fun!! I appreciate Saint Louis, its art community, and my friends and family for continuously supporting me and this evolving journey.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Three qualities that were and are still impactful for me on this journey are patience, being vulnerable, and allowing time for self-care.
Do not let failed first attempts towards yout interests dissuade you from bettering yourself. My stippling and drawing skills were far from where they are today, and I acted on my frustrations by trying different approaches. Proceed difficulties as one trying to resolve an argument with someone you care about. It takes time.
Be vulnerable with people (and use wise judgment). Sometimes you have to open the door to a conversation before one feels safe walking through it. Not everyone knows or understands the depth of emotion you may carry regarding certain topics in your life; but some of the best conversations and inspiration can blossom once the space to do so is shared. People will always surprise you- for better or worse; it is an experience, nonetheless.
Remember to embrace self-care. I wish it had not taken a pandemic for us (including myself) to realize its importance. I feel like this is not a topic I need to expand on- say “no,” if you are not feeling it and enjoy your “me” time. We both know you deserve it.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
Recently, I broke my dominant wrist/arm while hiking down a mountain. The stitches come out next week and I am doing my best to create art with my left hand in the meantime. It has been super stressful because I am entering a gallery as a resident artist, have a few exhibitions coming up, and my commissions are on hold. Trying to organize my work schedule, finances, and stress levels are a whole whirlwind— but it is obviously not powerful enough because I still have soap stuck in my hair (one arm probs). I will work through it. Patience is key.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mgnbdgr.com/
- Instagram: @mgnbdgr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mgnbdgr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-badger
