Margo is joined by illustrator and children’s book artist Natalie Lundeen for a candid conversation about creativity, motherhood, burnout, and redefining what it means to be a “successful” artist. Based in Clearwater, Florida, Natalie specializes in children’s books, greeting cards, and licensed artwork, with illustrations spanning indie publishing, Etsy products, and now traditional publishing through Flamingo Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House. Her newest books, Dear Mom and Dear Dad, were released this spring.
Natalie shares the winding path that led her from fine art and gallery work into illustration, how becoming a mother completely reshaped her creative process, and the surprising timing of landing a two-book publishing deal just days after deciding to step away from illustration professionally. Margo and Natalie explore the freedom that can come from releasing pressure, the realities of balancing creative work with financial stability, and why having a part-time job outside the art world doesn’t make someone any less of an artist. It’s an honest and refreshing conversation about building a creative life that actually supports your wellbeing—not just your résumé.
Margo and Natalie discuss:
- Natalie’s transition from oil painting and gallery work into children’s book illustration
- How motherhood reshaped both her artistic style and creative priorities
- Building early illustration opportunities through Etsy, Instagram, and indie authors
- The realities of self-publishing projects, client boundaries, and revision expectations
- Landing a traditional publishing deal after deciding to step away from illustration full time
- Why returning to part-time cleaning work helped her enjoy art again
- Redefining success outside of the “full-time artist” narrative
- The importance of flexibility, creative friendships, and sustainable creative cycles
- How personal projects and experimentation can open unexpected doors
- Why artists shouldn’t feel shame around taking outside work to support their creativity
Connect with Natalie:
- Website: https://natlundeen.myportfolio.com/
- Instagram: @natlundeen
