One of our shining stars here at EDiT. - the wonderful Magda Archer hits the sweet spot. Magda combines playful imagery and witty quips to create art that is nostalgic as well as surprising. Drawing on an interest in childhood and pop culture she produces work that is equal parts kitsch, innocent and cheeky.
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Magda studied in London, first at Ravensbourne, then Chelsea and The Royal College of Art, afterwards becoming part of the city’s vibrant art scene and exhibiting in galleries and art fairs. Now, Magda's work is recognised and renowned for its distinctive, satirical, artistic voice.
Magda’s art has a graphic immediacy, her use of text and imagery means her work hits us from all angles, catching us unawares. Magda surprises with her use of blunt or rude language, creating work that is funny and relatable in its honesty.
Having worked with Comme des Garcons and Marc Jacobs, Magda’s work sits firmly in the current cultural zeitgeist - posing thoughts about internet culture and consumerism alongside a refreshingly open attitude around mental health and communication. Much like keeping a journal or diary, Magda’s practice is a visual way for her to address passing thoughts and feelings and a way to engage with and make sense of the world around us.
Magda Archer’s favourite time to work is early morning. She sets up in her studio as the birds begin to make their noise. Nestled amongst scribbled notes and disparate imagery, she waits for words and images to collide in her head, forming humorous parallels and intriguing contrasts.
Referencing British pop culture in her work, Magda draws on common expressions, lyrics and advertising - often juxtaposing harsher language with friendly cartoons reminiscent of childhood. Humour is a large part of Magda's process and outcomes. She has a lighthearted approach to making that is refreshing - describing herself as ‘always seeing the funny side of things’. Magda’s work is irreverent and sardonic, with a hint of the surreal. Talking about the response her work elicits, she says ‘I have to let it go and do its stuff’.
Through talking to people who visit us here at EDiT., it is evident that Magda’s pieces strike an emotional chord. She manages to hit on day to day anxieties and insecurities making them funny - and therefore more manageable. It’s brilliant to see your own worries thrown up big and bold in one of Magda’s prints - her work makes these private and personal thoughts humorous and collective.
Magda likes to work on multiple projects at once, to keep herself from getting bored. She thrives off of the pace that working on several pieces affords her, and admits that getting in a muddle is an inherent part of her practice. Magda is excited by the ‘old fashioned’ images she remembers from her childhood. Growing up in modern, minimal homes, she finds her practice drawn towards the other end of the spectrum - the kitsch, bold, and playful.
We are delighted to work with Magda Archer - pop into the gallery for a browse of her work or click below to shop online.
