Mary Fowler: Matildas star unveils hidden creative talent as painter of handbags
The soccer star might have the world at her feet, but she’s almost as talented with her hands.
Matildas striker Mary Fowler has become a global star with the world at her feet, yet the talented Aussie has unveiled a hidden talent off the pitch that proves she’s just as confident with her hands.
Sharing her new art project @myjournalisfull on social media, the 23-year-old invited her 476k Instagram followers to check out her creative pursuits away from the bright lights of world football.
“Hey everyone it’s Mary here, and welcome to the first episode of My Journal is Full so I’m Painting Instead,” Fowler began,
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“When I say painting, I actually mean painting on bags.”
Seated casually at her art table, the soccer star wore a beige boob tube and brown beret as she proudly addressed fans.
A series of her works — vibrantly adorned brown leather handbags — hung from the door in her room as she showcased her latest creation.
“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 continued.
The Manchester City forward then unhooked several of her pieces from the door and paraded them to the camera, with a heavy focus on flowers and pot plants evident.
“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 you mind and your thoughts take you,” Fowler concluded.
The star asked fans to suggest ideas for her next design and was immediately flooded with positive feedback.
“Love the creativity and showing another great side to you as a person! Love it and keep going Mary ❤️,” one person wrote.
“Is there any chance you’d be selling them? 🥹” another asked.
One fan gushed over the star’s willingness to openly share non-athletic exploits.
“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 🫶 xo,” they wrote.
Fowler’s sister Louise even chimed in, labelling the designs “Very cutesy”.
While the star’s skills as a painter might come as a surprise to many, it’s not her only creative outlet.
In late 2024, Fowler’s eye as a photographer was quietly unveiled, with Fowler sharing still images of loved ones in her social album @photosbymaz.
Subjects include her NRL player boyfriend Nathan Cleary, sister Louise, and Matildas teammate Courtney Nevin.
The Cairns product’s status as one of the world game’s most influential cultural figures was affirmed recently upon signing a $10 million endorsement deal with sports and apparel brand Adidas.
The enviable contract follows Fowler’s runway debut at Paris Fashion Week in September 2025.
She has not been included in Australia’s squad for the Matildas’ upcoming FIFA Series games in Kenya commencing on April 11.
