Just Draw: 6 Questions with August Swinson

Interview and illustration by August Swinson.

August Swinson doesn’t overthink it, and that’s the magic. His work lives in sketchbooks, on signage, on skin, and now, in one of Toronto’s busiest public spaces through a striking mural collaboration with his son, Luke.

In this edition of 6Qs with Christine, August shares how an early drawing sparked a lifelong practice, why he still draws for fun, and the quiet rituals that keep his creativity grounded.

1. What first sparked your interest in creative work, and when did it start to feel like something you’d really pursue?

   I was 10 years old and living with my Mom and 4 siblings with my Grandfather on our reserve. I had a paperback book and each chapter started halfway down the page.

   
   

   This chapter was called Indian Summer so I drew a man in a canoe in the title page. The response was so positive that I knew I wanted to keep drawing. And I did from then on.

   
   

   I started by tracing any artwork that I liked. I fully recommend doing that to develop your drawing skills.

   
   

2. We’ve seen your work in galleries, on buildings, and most recently in a beautiful Toronto collab with your son Luke. What’s your favourite part of making something for a public space?

   The favourite part is hearing from people who see the work. We did murals at Union Station in Toronto and so many people message me on Instagram telling me how they enjoy seeing it in their daily travels. That feels good.

   
   

3. Your work feels both intentional and intuitive. Has that balance shifted over time, or does it show up differently depending on the medium?

   Even commissioned subjects end up being intuitive for me. I've always had a "no plans just draw" attitude.

   
   

   Not a very intellectual process.

4. From signage and murals to illustration and tattooing, your portfolio spans a lot of ground. What tends to pull you toward a new project or format, is it the challenge, the message, or something else?

   I draw for fun. Always have. I used to draw with my kids at the kitchen table for fun. Some dads played sports. We drew together.

   
   

   So to be asked to draw as a job is such and honour. What pulls me toward a new project? Being asked to does it usually.

5. What do you do when creative energy’s running low? Any go-to moves, mindsets, or rituals that help you reset?

   Music and nature reset my creative juices. The landscape of the Kawarthas and Muskokas. Ambient music.

   
   

   Seeing cool (usually comic book) artwork: Jack Kirby, Mike Mignola. Going to the McMichael art gallery does inspire me. The Group of Seven have been life long inspirations. Emily Carr. Norval Morrisseau!!!!!

6. What’s a moment when you thought: yep, this is why I do this. Big or small, we’re talking goosebumps, a grin, or maybe just that quiet feeling of “this matters.”

   Usually the reaction I get from people who like my “work”. And remembering mundane jobs I did before becoming a full time artist.

   
   

   I do it because I can. I don't overthink my talent or being able to do it as an occupation. But I know I am fortunate. I am grateful.

Bonus Question: What’s something that still makes you feel like a kid in the best way, curious, excited, or totally lit up? Hmmm... ice cream. Music/records. Crokinole boards. Motorcycles. Movies. Comic Books. Superhero movies especially.

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Know someone with a creative spark?

I’m always looking for inspiring people to feature in 6Qs with Christine. If you know a creative thinker, maker, or storyteller whose journey deserves a spotlight, send me a note! I’d love to hear from you.