Today we’d like to introduce you to Maggie Roof.
Hi Maggie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve always had a deep fascination with the coastal landscape. When I was younger, growing up in Savannah, GA., I distinctly remember going on boat rides around Tybee Island. I remember feeling the spray of the saltwater and the warmth of the sun on my face. The most breathtaking moment I have ever witnessed is at dusk when the sun meets the horizon. I would concentrate on the water, observing how the colors and light would dance upon the surface. It wasn’t until later in my life that I found a way to express my love for the landscape. I discovered my passion for painting in high school. I started out painting a variety of subjects and working with an array of mediums. Something about painting the coastal landscape, however, just stuck with me. Ever since, I’ve been developing my art practice which eventually led me to Savannah College of Art and Design.
Attending SCAD was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Not only was I able to learn and develop my practice, but I met so many wonderful artists. Here, I was able to truly express myself through my work and share that process with others. I had dived into my subject of the landscape. I began to focus closely on the water itself. A lot of my inspiration came from a community dock just across the street from where I lived. I would take pictures right as the sun was setting, crouching on a little floating dock that was nestled in a creek where water was coming in from the river. Painting from those photos, I took my time on the details of the reflection and how the water was corresponding with the environment. Light and color also play an important role in the painting. All these elements make up a scenery in which I strive to capture onto canvas. It’s a moment in time that I want to share with others.
Today, I am continuing to paint and working as an artist. I am currently being represented by a gallery based in Charleston, SC. called Landing Contemporary Art. Through LCA, I have had the opportunity to showcase my work around the Charleston area.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’ve definitely faced bumps in the road with my artistic practice. Even now, I try to maintain that discipline to prioritize life and painting. However, I try my best to separate some time just for myself to work on my paintings. Finding that good balance between everyday responsibilities and working on my art will always be a struggle.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work is mainly focused on bodies of water within the landscape. Along the surface of the water is a mirrored reflection of the surrounding environment. I love the idea of reflections displaying a new image, distorted and warped by the water itself. These dynamic reflections I find so visually beautiful with the array of colors and refracting light from the sun. Savannah offers a lot of opportunities to capture these stunning water reflections. I mainly work with oil paints on canvas. Painting on a panel is another favorite of mine because of the smooth texture of the wood. I like experimenting with texture and the use of the palette knife.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I love collaborating with galleries such as Landing Contemporary Art. I am able to collaborate on shows, what pieces to showcase, and how the paintings are displayed. LCA is also really great with marketing my work which is huge considering my pieces might reach a lot more people. I also love participating in group exhibitions and working with other artists.
Contact Info:
- Email: maggieroof@gmail.com
- Website: https://maggieroofstudio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maggieroof/
