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HAYLEY STEINER | DECEMBER 9th, 2021 | 4:00PM
Sandpaper Sweet (They/She)
An Intimate Look: The Artwork of Sandpaper Sweet
While experiencing the artwork of Denver artist, Sandpaper Sweet, there is no denying how visually striking and compelling each piece truly is. Meticulously created through the use of movement, composition, and color, each work in their collection evokes more than just beauty in the eye of the viewer. Instead, their artwork has the ability to make the observer feel something; much like the creator the work stems from, Margaret Maclagan.
Better known as Sandpaper Sweet, Margaret has been creating emotional pieces most of her life. Through intense determination, she began selling artwork at the young age of just 15. Like many of her artistic peers and predecessors, she creates as a form of selfcare and representation through experience. Raised by a line of fiercely independent feminists, it is no wonder her work is often a reflection of hard to face but necessary subjects such as abuse, violence, and politics.
Much of Sandpaper Sweet’s collection finds its character in themes regarding women, internal struggles, and queer expressionism. In one painting, a charming, green-haired woman cavalierly feasts on insects. In another, a dreamy-eyed girl is adorned by puffy rainclouds and a despondent rainbow. Each piece shows personality and expressionism in a bewitching and enigmatic way.
Inspiration comes alive in many forms for Sandpaper Sweet. Inspired by the likes of oil painter, Annie Steg, illustrator JAW Cooper, and digital artist Anastasia Berry, Margaret is always honing their craft and finding room for growth, working on any material they can find. Her intense dedication shines through the evolution of her work with multiple mediums including digital, oil, and acrylic illustrations. Not to mention, through their collaborative projects.
Creating art can be a personal procedure, and yet, Sandpaper Sweet seems to have met her perfect match in the world of creative collaboration. Working with Colorado tattoo artist, Britney Jenneiahn, better known as Bird. The pair have collaborated on many projects including a print and mural company that operates under the name The Stuck Up Studio, creating stunning and powerful pieces as a team. When asked how easily their collective projects come together, Sandpaper Sweet said, “Working with Bird is a breeze, and I think that is the result of our friendship dynamic. Design wise, we have the same brain and it doesn’t hurt that we usually prefer to take on different tasks in the process too.” She also notes her communication and relationship with Bird is an incredibly special one, playing a major role in their partnership process. It is clear upon viewing the teams work that these two truly are twin flames.
We can expect many great things from artist, Sandpaper Sweet, in the upcoming year. With eyes set on a tattoo apprenticeship, and plans for a new mural in the works, we can’t wait to see what they have in store! Be sure to swing by their page to check out their ever-evolving work and show some support. Sandpaper Sweet is sure to pull you in.
