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
