So, Margot, tell us about MVR Design Studio. What’s it all about?
MVR Design Studio is a small boutique firm specializing in graphic designs applied to all sorts of products that people use every day. It’s where I can let my creativity flow. The name comes from my initials—MVR. If you’ve ever received one of my notes, cards, or emails, you’ve probably already recognized me.
What inspired you to start your own design company?
I realized that at this point in my life, creating art truly brings me joy. It felt like a natural next step for me. I have decades worth of sketches, paintings, and doodles, and I wanted to see them come to life on things people wear, and on common everyday objects that people use. My past experiences of owning a restaurant, running a drum-making business, and my years as an executive search consultant in tech and biotech, were fulfilling in their own ways, but let’s just say the grind was real. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, so starting something from scratch and the uncertainty that comes with it excites me. I’m looking at it as a thrilling adventure.
What are your goals for MVR Design Studio?
Short-term, I want to create designs that resonate with me and place them on products I’d love to use myself. Looking ahead, I envision branching out into wallpaper and fabric patterns and licensing my designs for even wider product use. On a more personal note, I want my designs to take people by surprise, sparking new ways of thinking. For instance, I have some quirky bunny designs that aren’t your typical cute fluffy critters. One features a bunny with fangs and claws shooting hearts from a carrot rifle. I love the idea that even the angriest among us can have a soft side.
What makes your design studio stand out?
Honestly, it’s all about doing what I love. I’m not chasing trends or worrying about analytics. I like to create what intrigues me, whether that’s images with rhythm or musical themes, or whimsical cartoon animals. Thelonious Monk said, “A genius is the one most like himself,” and I keep that in mind every day as I strive to infuse my true self into everything I make. I find that being derivative or copying others just isn’t satisfying.
Can you share a bit about your musical journey?
As a child in Italy I took piano lessons for a year or so. They were quite a snooze, and my teacher had heinous breath, but I learned how to read music and play some classical pieces. When I moved to the US, I continued with classical piano, although I longed to explore jazz and blues. Life got busy, and I stepped away for a while, but I eventually discovered hand drums, and everything changed. Now, I play jazz piano, and also some guitar thanks to the very talented José Neto, a Brazilian guitarist who patiently gave me lessons.
What’s your experience with West African and Afro-Cuban music?
When my daughter was little, she went to a preschool where they offered a percussion class taught by the sensational James Henry. I was hooked and often stood in the back of the classroom to watch and listen—it was hard to resist those rhythms. Eventually, James and I became friends, and I expressed my desire to play too. His encouragement pushed me to pursue percussion. That coincided with my overhearing a workshop of Olatunji’s, where even from outside the building I was utterly captivated by the sound of the drums. I soon found a gifted teacher in Kim Atkinson, who laid down my foundation in Afro-Cuban rhythms, and from there, I went on to explore various styles and forms, playing alongside talented drummers from around the world.
How do you come up with new ideas?
I have no lack of ideas, but it can be challenging to devote as much time as I would like to bring them to life. When inspiration strikes, I’ll make a quick sketch to avoid losing the idea. I have a great love of children’s art because of its freedom and expression, which inspires me. I see patterns and designs all around me, everywhere I look. I also enjoy seeing the work of other artists. Even if their work isn’t to my taste, there’s always an element that catches my eye, whether it’s a color combination, a texture, the color of a shadow, or a shape.
Olive green duffle bag for shekere lovers
What’s your background in art?
Art has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Back in fourth grade while living in Italy, my colored pencil drawing of zebras won a national art competition and ended up on display in a museum. It was a great honor, but it was too much too soon and it inhibited my free expression of art for a long time afterwards. I was fifteen when I discovered there was an art practice called commercial art. Back then everything was produced by hand, there was nothing digital. I was immediately drawn to the notion of placing my designs on things people could use every day, and as I recall, my first design was a fictitious logo and label design for an oatmeal container. My art teacher was a huge positive influence, encouraging me to pursue my passion. Over the years, I’ve created many pieces using different techniques, including watercolor, etching, acrylic painting, and sculpture.
Do you collaborate with other artists?
Absolutely, and I enjoy it. During the pandemic, I had a very fulfilling multi-year project with my young neighbor, who was five years old when we began. We transformed huge reclaimed redwood fence panels into paintings of dancers. From power washing to painting, she was involved in every step, and we exhibited our work at a local art walk. Collaborating is something I cherish because I believe that when two ideas come together, they create something truly explosive and beautiful.
Will you be branching out beyond music-themed designs?
Yes, while music will always be a major part of my designs, I’m also working on collections featuring little birds, sharks, fish, repeating patterns, and even some fun explorations called “Nightmares of Our Childhood.” This collection is inspired by the things that scared me as a child, but I’m putting a playful twist on those memories.
What kind of products can people find your designs on?
For the moment, I’m putting my designs on a range of products offered by the print on demand platform I selected. From everyday T-shirts for all ages to mugs, bags, throw pillows, and even shower curtains, there’s something useful for everyone. Each pairing of design to product is something I would genuinely use myself, so it’s a thoughtful process.