We recently had the chance to connect with Meredith Johns and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Meredith, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I wish I could say there was such thing as a “normal” day, but honestly that’s one of the things I love about my job. Every day is a new adventure.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Meredith Johns and I am a makeup and FX artist based in Austin, TX. I am co-owner of Hawgfly Productions with my business partner Carolyn O’Hara. We create custom costumes, props, prosthetics and makeup looks for projects on all levels. We work with film, TV, print, commercial, events, influencers/creators and private clients. We’re the ones you call when it’s weird! Have a wild idea you want to create? Give us a call!
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Two of the things I value most are honesty and communication. Trust is one of the most important things to me in a relationship. Dishonesty can destroy your bond with a person and sometimes create a rift that is impossible to repair. Communication is key and can help restore a rocky relationship. It can also help prevent the breaking of trust.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There have been many many times I’ve almost given up. Often my job requires me to create something that has never been made before. The learning curves and trial and error can take a major toll on you and sometimes it’s really hard to see a light at the end of the tunnel. I live for the challenge, but sometimes the struggle seems insurmountable.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I have several sayings that my crew quotes me on…
We just have to make it to ____ (fill in the blank)
You’ll get used to that.
It’s gonna be great!
Truthfully though, I love my job so much. If it were easy, everyone would do it!
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I have lived my life one experience after another. I sincerely hope people remember all the crazy stories and reflect back on the works of art I’ve created. My goal has always been to lead a full and adventurous life and leave behind as many works of art as possible when I’m gone. Live a full life and leave a beautiful trail of art behind you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hawgfly.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hawgfly_meredith
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@hawgflyfx
