If you're looking for one-of-a-kind, eye-catching pieces for your home, look no further than Atomic Wood Designs by Michael Lawson. Known for his complex geometric patterns, mandalas, and dimensional artwork, this artist is inspired by everything from 50's sci-fi art to Lisa Frank designs. But it's not just the style that sets these pieces apart - they also incorporate UV paint that glows in black light, making them a unique addition to any space. In this interview, Michael shares insights into his creative process and the satisfaction of seeing customers react to his work. Plus, learn about some new pieces he's debuting at an upcoming show.
Tell us about the products you make.
I try really hard to make things I think are fascinating out of wood, and thankfully, thus far, there's been a very receptive audience. I'm also a sucker for dimensional artwork, so that's what we focus on. Complex geometric patterns, mandalas, and pieces inspired by Lisa Frank. Oh, and if it glows in black light, I'm all in.
Is there a story behind your business name?
I love 50's sci-fi art design, classic monsters, atomic age, and art deco styles it all kind-of came together. Is the old Disney movie Forbidden Planet a vibe? That's me.
What is your favorite product that you create?
I just finished a 24-layer Octopus that I'm particularly fond of, it was an incredible pain to create and I'm pretty proud of how it turned out. All of the female form pieces are also pretty close to heart.
What does your art-making process look like?
Does organized disaster make any sense? There are always about 6-10 ongoing projects that I'm working on at the same time. Generally batching laser cut pieces, hand carving the large wood pieces, and various states of painting, assembly, and packing depending on when and where my next show is going to be.
How would you describe your workspace?
Think wood workshop meets organized chaos. No matter how much I clean, it's generally a disaster, but that's show business!
What led you to start your business? How did you get started, and how has the journey been so far?
I've been in business since 2014, but art full-time since 2020. Most of my other business dried up during covid, so I pivoted my art design skillset to straight art for sale.
How did you get to where you are today?
The blessing and the curse of the art business are: You're only as good as your next piece. If you rest on your successes, you'll miss the next opportunities. Certainly, stop and smell the roses, but constantly innovating and creating is the true success measurement of any production hand-to-mouth art business. It's also important to find your markets. I've had the benefit of being sort of the "only fish in my pond," so competition is almost non-existent. I'm constantly benefiting from the novelty factor, but repeat customers always want to see something new.
What was the first item you ever made/sold?
My very first show was the North Texas Irish Festival, I have no idea how I got in or why they selected a brand new artist, and I was so flattered that I spent four weeks focused on Celtic knot-type work and mandalas which are still in my regular product lineup to this day.
What makes your pieces special?
There's literally nothing else in the market that I've seen that is like it, there are a couple of folks doing layered designs, but nobody using UV paint and dedicating an entire booth setup to the art.
How do you recommend using/styling your pieces?
Home goods products from olive wood should always be hand washed with softer soaps. If they get ashy or dry, reapply a light coating of olive oil.
For the artwork, it's really best to hang it in a darker part of the house or in a spot where you can up/down light with a black light.
What do you love most about running your business?
When someone says "wow," I win the dopamine race. If they buy something even better, but that wow lets me know that this is something they've never seen before or they see something that speaks to them. That's the best part of being in the art business.
What inspires you, and how do you stay inspired?
The opportunity to make literally anything I want to make is by far the greatest blessing you can have. No horrible bosses, no TPS reports, no Zoom meetings. Are you kidding, get in this world as quick as you can.
Oh, and the rent's due literally the first of EVERY month.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as an artist?
I don't get hung up on the word artist. I just try to make cool stuff. If other folks like it, that's all that matters. I find the art world takes itself a little too seriously, and that's not how I want to run my art business.
What are the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Pivoting in 2020 was a beast, trying to replace the income from my marketing business was a struggle for sure.
Why do you think people are drawn to your style?
I think we're seeing a resurgence of psychedelic artwork, and I'm sort of adjacent to that market. So, I get a good mix of older folks who went through the 60s-70s and younger folks just getting into that stage of their life.
Which of your pieces do you think make for a meaningful gift?
Any of our pieces can be customized, and I do a fair amount of completely custom work. If you want something truly one-of-a-kind, I got you covered.
Are you offering anything new at the Spring Bash?
There are always 2-3 new pieces for every show. This show has new Baseball games and Ouija boards!
That’s a wrap!
We’re looking forward to seeing your new work. Thank you so much for joining us at the 2023 Spring Bash!
Be sure to shop Atomic Wood Designs and follow along on Instagram @Atomicwooddesigns.
