We were lucky to catch up with Maggie Latham recently and have shared our conversation below.

Maggie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. 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?

Early on I learned primarily from other artists and teachers. After being inspired by my natural dyes instructor at The School of Art Institute of Chicago, I set out to find people I could learn from and ended up in Finland, spending time at an eco-village community. I worked with textile artist Anna Vasko, and the experience took my commitment to exploring natural dyes to the next level. When I returned home to Cleveland, I dove into teaching myself more and began to dye my own fabric with the intent of making usable products.

Knowing what I know now, I wouldn’t have done anything to speed up the learning process. Instead, I would have worked on setting realistic expectations earlier on in my journey. When I first started out making naturally dyed goods, I was really excited about a lot of different product ideas, but didn’t have the skills to create them all. I ended up quickly learning a little bit about several skills in order to try and create many of these products. If I would have set clearer goals and expectations, I could have adjusted to a more sustainable pace for myself sooner. In this way, learning to have patience with myself is the most essential skill I’ve gained.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Maggie Latham and I’m an artist, natural-dyer, and educator based in Cleveland, OH. Using hands-on processes such as sewing and paper-making as well as colors derived from plant and mineral sources, I make art and useable products such a pillowcases, eye masks, and other wearable pieces.

My journey of working with natural dyes and materials began when I was in college at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, studying interior architecture and design. I grew increasingly interested in eco-friendly alternatives to fabric choices and color swatches.

After school, I worked many different part time jobs to support myself while learning more about natural dyes. Eventually I received the opportunity to create custom naturally dyed scarves for a local business. From there, I acquired more relationships and clients. I spent a few years working on commissions before I had the time and resources to make enough products to sell at my first open studio. I’ve now participated in shows, have an online shop, and still do custom work. I also have begun to teach and find it a very gratifying experience to share my knowledge with others who are excited about this craft.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Yes, my mission is to raise awareness about ecological collapse and show that a more reciprocal relationship between humans and the environment is possible when we use natural materials. Amidst the enormity of pollution and human rights violations in the textile industry, I work with eco-friendly, responsible processes that are aligned with everyday life.

In all of my work I am passionate about transparency when it comes to labor and materials as well as principles of cradle-to-cradle design. This means that I am working to make products in such a way that at the end of their original use, they can be truly recycled (upcycled) or composted to enter the cycle of life once again.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

When I committed to working with natural materials, I took some local classes here in Cleveland, Ohio. A few years after learning from other art educators, I am grateful to also be able to call myself an educator and teach similar courses. Whether it’s through classes, or other community events, connecting with people is the most rewarding aspect of being an artist.

Art can be so transformative when it illuminates the invisible, subtle and complex structures around us. When I am able to make something unique that brings someone joy or design a product that helps make a difference even in the smallest way, I feel this kind of transformation and sense of joy. I hope to continue making, teaching, and collaborating with others who are interested in imagining new possibilities too.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://maggielatham.studio
• Instagram: @maggie.latham

Image Credits
Grace K. McConnell