“Never give up on something that you can’t go a day without thinking about.”
Winston Churchill
Meet Meg Auchenbach, an author, an artist, a mother, a teacher, and an inspiration to young women. Meg graduated from Marywood’s Get Your Masters With the Masters Fine Arts program in 2016, with a MFA in Illustration. She worked for this after receiving her BFA in Painting from Arcadia University. Meg is a published author and illustrator with brilliant work in children’s books, she also has an Etsy shop that we all aspire to have! Check out Meg’s instagram and facebook! Continue reading to take a peek into Meg’s life and career!
What attracted you to this career path?
My favorite part about Marywood was the immersive quality of the program. I loved packing up each summer and staying on campus for the two weeks, and traveling to the study tours each fall and spring. It was so nice to have solid, uninterrupted time to devote to art-making and learning.
Did your career path match your vision of a career path? What is different?
I started out as an elementary art teacher- which I loved, but after having kids I wanted to transition to something that I could do at home, while being with my kids. Writing and illustrating fit that vision perfectly! Now that they are both in school full time, I’ve thought about going back to teaching (while still illustrating and writing), but I’m still undecided.
How did your art education at Marywood help your career?
When I arrived at Marywood, I had absolutely no experience with digital art or the Adobe Suite. Upon graduating, I was able to draw and paint digitally, create repeat patterns, and create vectors. I now paint mostly digitally (using Procreate), and use InDesign to create my picture book dummies. Additionally, I learned so much about the art of creating picture books from Professors Megan Halsey and Melanie Hall. Their class was so informational, supportive, and fun. I still refer to their handouts when working!
What was your favorite part about studying art at Marywood?
My favorite part about Marywood was the immersive quality of the program. I loved packing up each summer and staying on campus for the two weeks, and traveling to the study tours each fall and spring. It was so nice to have solid, uninterrupted time to devote to art-making and learning.
What is your favorite thing about your current job?
I love the complete autonomy of it, and I also just love the process. The time flies by when I’m at my desk working on a project. I love that I get to daydream and imagine scenarios, and basically think like a kid all day- it’s the best!
Are you currently working on any interesting side projects?
In addition to writing and illustrating picture books, I also work as a pet portrait artist. I create custom, watercolor paintings of people’s furry friends, which is so awesome and rewarding for me since I love animals. (I have three inside cats, four outside cats, a deaf pitbull, and we are currently fostering two kittens.) I am also contracted as a pet portrait artist for a corporate pet-care company.
What are some of the biggest rewards in your career?
The biggest reward thus far has been seeing my debut picture book, titled IF YOU ARE AN ARTIST, in stores. That has been such an indescribable feeling! Also, hearing that children are enjoying reading my book and are inspired to create has been beyond rewarding. I have two school visits coming up, and I am excited to connect with the kids in person!
What inspires you?
Animals, the beauty of nature, cozy and autumnal scenes, magic, spooky season, quirky humor, and kids- they’re so funny and cool.
Any advice for current art students at Marywood?
I would suggest that if you want to make art your business or go into freelance work, to definitely educate yourself on the logistics of running a small business, taxes, bookkeeping, digital marketing, etc. There are many great classes to be found online that will help with this. I wish I did that right out of the gate, as it was a steep learning curve. Also, I would make time every day for an art practice that is just for you, outside of your school work. Wake up early, or stay up late and carve out an extra 15 minutes to draw what inspires you.
I want to take the time to thank Meg for her time spent sharing her story. Meg is proof that you can do it all and still have time for your family (and pets)! Her career is so inspiring and her work is truly incredible! Thank you Meg, we can’t wait to see what you do next!