Matildas Star Mary Fowler Reveals Hidden Artistic Talent as Handbag Painter
Matildas striker Mary Fowler has achieved global fame on the soccer pitch, but the talented Australian athlete is now showcasing a surprising creative side off the field. The 23-year-old football star has unveiled a hidden artistic talent, proving she is just as skilled with her hands as she is with her feet.
Social Media Showcase of Creative Pursuits
Fowler recently introduced her new art project @myjournalisfull to her 476,000 Instagram followers, inviting them to explore her creative endeavors away from the bright lights of world football. In her debut post, she announced, "Hey everyone it's Mary here, and welcome to the first episode of My Journal is Full so I'm Painting Instead." She clarified, "When I say painting, I actually mean painting on bags."
Seated casually at her art table wearing a beige boob tube and brown beret, Fowler proudly addressed her fans. A series of her completed works—vibrantly adorned brown leather handbags—hung from a door in her room as she showcased her latest creation.
Artistic Philosophy and Inspiration
The Manchester City forward explained her artistic approach, stating, "I feel really connected with the idea that was formerly loved and transforming it into something new and different, and as you can see, quite colourful." She then unhooked several pieces from the door to parade them for the camera, with floral and pot plant designs prominently featured.
Fowler concluded her presentation by sharing her motivation: "For now, it's just a place for me to sit down and get things off my mind and hopefully encourage people out there to just pick up a brush or a pen, or whatever it is, and just create and see where your mind and your thoughts take you."
Positive Fan Response and Engagement
The soccer star asked followers to suggest ideas for her next design and was immediately flooded with enthusiastic feedback. One fan wrote, "Love the creativity and showing another great side to you as a person! Love it and keep going Mary." Another inquired, "Is there any chance you'd be selling them?"
A new follower expressed admiration, commenting, "Hi Mary, new follower here! I've only known you for your soccer skills but didn't realise you're so clever crafty artsy - Love Love LOVE seeing these & I look forward to seeing more of your creative work." Fowler's sister Louise even chimed in, describing the designs as "Very cutesy."
Broader Creative Portfolio and Career Highlights
While Fowler's painting skills may surprise many, this is not her only creative outlet. In late 2024, she quietly revealed her photographic eye through the social album @photosbymaz, sharing still images of loved ones including her NRL player boyfriend Nathan Cleary, sister Louise, and Matildas teammate Courtney Nevin.
The Cairns-born athlete's status as one of world football's most influential cultural figures was recently affirmed when she signed a record-breaking $10 million endorsement deal with sports and apparel brand Adidas. This enviable contract follows her runway debut at Paris Fashion Week in September 2025.
Fowler will not be joining the Australian squad for the Matildas' upcoming FIFA Series games in Kenya beginning April 11, allowing her more time to focus on both her athletic and artistic pursuits.
