Today we’d like to introduce you to Maggie Burns
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey as an Etsy artist began one night in college, driven by love of creating and my passion for the platform, which at the time was still a hidden gem of the internet resembling a virtual craft fair. I launched my first Etsy shop, MaggieBee Designs, where I sold handmade tote bags, hair bows, and novelty fabric-covered Toms shoes. The shop, particularly the Toms, enjoyed immediate success.
Throughout the years, my shop has undergone many transformations – from designing custom fabric, to creating one of kind paintings, to wholesale button making. However, throughout all these iterations, it has consistently embraced themes such as musical theater, romance novels, Disney, and gothic whimsy.
During the pandemic my shop restructured and rebranded to become MaggieB Illustrations. My focus is now on my professional illustrations and creating unique items like prints, stickers, shirts, and home goods that feature my artwork. My work has been sold at The Orlando Museum of Art and MegaCon, showcased at Beetlejuice The Musical on Broadway, and is even featured on display in a little cafe in the Montmartre District of Paris!
I believe, with my illustration work, I have finally found my niche. This is the work that brings me joy and I look forward to continuing to develop my skills and unlock more life goals! (romance novel covers, picture books, and more!)
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I guess you can say the road has had some dips and valleys! I think the hardest part is imposter syndrome or being too tough on myself and my art – therefore, holding myself back. I think what I’m discovering is sometimes most people (or the algorithm) won’t like your work – but you got to keep making. I’m a creative… it’s what I do.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am classically trained in most mediums from my wonderful high school art teacher and from my college experience at the Savanah College of Art and Design. I studied costume design and worked professionally in the costume department in Walt Disney World. It was at Disney I discovered my enthusiasm for digital art and illustration. It was during my career as a production specialist with Rifle Paper Co. that I honed my skills in developing hard goods and understanding the importance of creating a quality product with your art.
I am currently working on a series of illustrated pieces surrounding original characters tentatively called “The Guardian,” featuring a paranormal gothic romance storyline. I have several pieces made but am still developing a storyline and how I best want to present these characters to the world. My instagram followers have been so enthusiastic for these works and characters. The support has been very encouraging and I can’t wait to develop “The Guardian” further!
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The key to my success has been my commitment to creating work that I love, rather than conforming to popular trends. I focus on producing pieces that I believe in, enjoy, and would personally purchase or engage with. While there may be greater financial opportunities in following every fleeting trend, doing so would compromise the authenticity of my work. I believe that authenticity resonates with my audience and is reflected in the quality and integrity of my creations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://maggieburnsillustrations.com
- Instagram: maggiebillustrations
