Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Maddy Barnes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Maddy, thanks for joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

How did you learn to do what you do?

I’ve always been drawn to the arts, starting with competitive dance in my early years, which led to a broader exploration of artistic experiences like acting for film, theatre, and photography. After a brief pause during high school and university, I rediscovered my creative side in 2018 when I started working at a local art studio. There, I taught classes and workshops across different mediums, which rekindled my passion for art and introduced me to ceramics. My practice developed naturally, deeply influenced by my educational background in eco-sustainability and my natural surroundings within Mississauga, where my interactions with nature became my muse.

Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process?

While I didn’t take the formal school route, I imagine doing so could have provided more intentional learning and resources early on. However, at the time, I was more focused on enjoying the creative process rather than pursuing it academically. Looking back, my unconventional path allows me to form and reform my voice as an artist, which I am incredibly grateful for.

What skills do you think were most essential?

Adaptability and curiosity have been the most essential skills for me. Working as an educator gave me the freedom to experiment with different mediums and learn through teaching, which broadened my creative approach. Being open to trying new things has led me through what I call “small eras” or “moments” of experimentation. I’ve had phases where I focused on making jewelry with copper and semi-precious stones, inspired by the incredible work of a local creator, Malcolm Emilio. I also practice Reiki, which deeply influences my perception of life and has become part of my artistic expression.

Graphic art is another passion of mine, where I love creating characters and dreamy room designs, often integrating flowers or fungi in unique and unexpected ways. And more recently, I’ve started exploring mural art and ceramics, finding new ways to bring my vision to life on a larger scale. Throughout all of these experiences, my connection to nature, observing and drawing inspiration from my surroundings has remained a core element in shaping my work.

What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

A significant obstacle was the time where I stepped away from the arts. It took time to find my way back, and being self-taught also means a lot of trial and error. Yet, these challenges ultimately help me grow as the artist I am today, appreciating the process rather than focusing solely on outcomes.

Maddy, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’ve always been drawn to the arts, though my creative journey has been anything but linear. I’ve explored a lot of different mediums—ceramics, abstract acrylics, murals, calligraphy, textiles, and illustration—because I’m curious by nature. I use these forms to explore themes of introspection, resilience, and the delicate balance between humanity and nature. I hope that my work makes people pause and think about life’s ironies, and how the human experience can reflect the natural world in unexpected ways.

One of the experiences I’m most proud of was being part of the Visual Arts Mississauga’s Creative Residency. That was a huge turning point for me, as it gave me the time, space, and resources to dive deep into my craft and create my largest body of sculptural work. More than just the art, it taught me a lot about myself and solidified my connection to the process.

I try to create work that feels like an invitation—whether it’s asking people to look inward or think about how they relate to nature. I love playing with that intersection between the human experience and the natural world, even when it’s uncomfortable. I find so much beauty in those contrasts, and that’s what I hope my art reflects.

Alongside my artistic practice, I’ve managed to continue working in this field as both a project coordinator and an instructor. It’s been a rewarding way to stay connected to the arts while helping others discover their own creativity.

While I’m still on the journey of fully establishing my voice as an artist, my work centres on finding beauty in life’s contrasts. I hope my artistic expression inspire others to find a sense of connection to the larger world around them.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One of the many important lessons I’ve had to unlearn is the pressure to always be creating, to push through what some call “creative block.” I’ve realized that those slower periods are part of my natural rhythm as a creative. I’m a seasonal artist at heart—fall and winter are when I’m most inspired and productive. But come spring and summer, I tend to step away from my home studio space and spend as much time outside as I can. I love gardening, cycling, and camping, and these moments outdoors are crucial for me. They’re not breaks from creativity, they’re what refuel it. Leaning into this flow instead of fighting it has made my process feel more authentic and allowed my work to grow naturally.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Honestly, my creative journey is all about self-discovery. A lot of what I create is for me and the process is like my own form of meditation or therapy. When I’m working, I lose myself in the process, usually with good music and aromas, it feels like I’m reconnecting with myself. I’ve realized that these moments—whether I’m sculpting, painting, or playing in the garden—are really about exploring who I am and what life means to me.

I touch on themes like irony, resilience, and fragility because they reflect how I see the world, especially the connection between people and nature. But at the end of the day, my work is created for my own growth. I’m grateful when others connect with it or find meaning in it, but these pieces are made for me, as a way to sit with myself, think, and feel. It’s always a bonus if someone else resonates with it, but it’s really my space to just be.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://maddybarnes.myportfolio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meraki.being/