Maggie Cowles « Chose Commune

Maggie Cowles

Maggie Cowles is an atist and illustrator based on the US East Coast.

– Home and studio — together or apart?

Not sure it’s my ideal setup, but currently together. My studio is part of my home, which means my days tend to move fluidly between drawing, cooking, watering plants, and then drawing some more.

– Do you have any daily rituals?

Iced Coffee first, always. Then I go check on my plants. Outdoors in the summer, indoors in the winter. Winter is a bit stressful, as every day feels like a small negotiation to keep them happy until it’s time for their spring move back outside. After that, I head to the studio and start whatever project is on my docket. I love a good to-do list.

– What is the first art book you remember?

Probably the books I loved as a child and still return to for inspiration: Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans, Babar by Jean de Brunhoff, and Brave Irene by William Steig.

– What is your studio/creative soundtrack?

Honestly, probably podcasts. I’m currently enraptured by the “Sexy Unique Podcast” to get my fill of all things Los Angeles. Music-wise, Kendrick Lamar and Rosalía are on repeat.

– What is the favorite thing you have in your studio?

My giant, slightly out-of-control collection of colored pencils. Or my best buddy, my orange cat, Mesa.

– Did you always want to be an artist?

I think I always wanted to make things, though I didn’t always have the language for what that would look like. Drawing has been the most constant thread.

– What does a free day look like?

Ideally: a lot of gardening, cooking something a little too complicated, going to a bookstore or a museum, and ending the day around a table with friends and good wine.