Sketches of a Colorful Life: Monika Forsberg on Art, Islands, and Embracing the Unfinished
Release Date: 04/23/2025
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info_outlineMargo is joined by Monika Forsberg, an award-winning illustrator and surface pattern designer known for her playful, colorful, and striking work across books, fabrics, homewares, toys, and more. Born and raised in a small coastal town in Swedish Lapland, Monika moved to London in 1995 where she now lives with her husband, two children, and a delightful mix of pets. She’s a keen swimmer, aspiring stamp collector, and former animator who believes in being versatile over niche. Her work is rich with curiosity, imagination, and a deep love for creative exploration. In this warm and meandering conversation, Monika and Margo dive into the layered realities of a creative career—one that doesn’t always follow a linear path but is all the more beautiful for it.
Margo and Monika discuss:
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Monika’s upbringing in Swedish Lapland and how it shaped her worldview
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Moving to the UK and studying art in multiple forms
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Embracing versatility over specialization in creative work
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The joys (and challenges) of working with client briefs
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Why personal projects are essential to her process
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How she uses Instagram and Substack to share more authentically
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Dreaming up whimsical projects—like a fantastical fair
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Approaching tricky client relationships with honesty and grace
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Continuing to grow, shift, and stay creatively energized
Connect with Monika:
Website: walkyland.com
Instagram: @monika_forsberg
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
The Foundry: https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry