Sketches of a Colorful Life: Monika Forsberg on Art, Islands, and Embracing the Unfinished

Margo 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: Monika’s upbringing in Swedish Lapland and how it shaped her worldview Moving to the UK and studying art in multiple forms Embracing versatility over specialization in creative work The joys (and challenges) of working with client briefs Why personal projects are essential to her process How she uses Instagram and Substack to share more authentically Dreaming up whimsical projects—like a fantastical fair Approaching tricky client relationships with honesty and grace 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