MUNTHE ART MONDAY: MEG GALLAGHER

Instagram: @meggallaghercreative
Website: meggallaghercreative.com

Please introduce yourself and tell us about what you do

My name is Meg Gallagher, born and raised in New Zealand. I am an abstract artist creating energy with color and texture. Nature plays a major role in my work – the curving lines, the earthy hues… I’m obsessed with finding the balance between calm and chaos.

Could you explain more about how being a woman has affected your career?

Before I became a painter I used to work in fashion for years. I was lucky enough to be surrounded by some very strong women with beautiful souls. They taught me that you could be powerful without an ego and what I personally brought to the table creatively and culturally is enough. Now, I feel assured to tape into my feminine instincts when navigating the art world.

Can you name some other female (artist) that inspires you and explain why they do so?

I love Maja Dlugolecki for her use of line and colour. Ash Holmes for her use of texture. Katarina Janeckova Walshe has the most incredible storytelling and Camilla Engström has a wonderful energy in her work.

What has been the most challenging aspect of being a female artist?

I would be lying at times if I didn’t have deflated days where it feels like a male dominated space. At times I’ve tried to hide how much being a mother effects my availability as an artist, but I honestly think I am a better painter from being a mother.

What would you like people to notice in your artwork?

I want viewers to feel energized when they see my work. Perhaps my pieces spark a memory of a place or a mood that they mirror internally. I want them to look closer, breathe a little deeper and then leave feeling more connected within themselves.