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Life & Work with Lauren Perkins of Austin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Perkins.

Lauren, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Creativity has been a constant throughout my life. I was always drawing in the margins of my notebooks during class and making paintings as gifts for family and friends. After earning my undergraduate degree in Communications from the University of Texas at Austin, I began my career in marketing, working with nonprofits and established brands such as Tacodeli.

When the COVID shutdown began, I instinctively ordered a collection of art supplies and returned to painting with renewed focus. That period became a turning point, giving me the time and space to develop my artistic voice and build a more intentional creative practice. Since then, I’ve continued to draw on my background in marketing and design as I’ve grown as an artist—bringing together visual storytelling, thoughtful communication, and a strong understanding of how to connect with others.

My creative practice has expanded beyond traditional artwork into product design and collaborations. I’ve had the opportunity to design a custom pair of boots for Lemora Boot House, hand-paint hats at local events, and partner with interior designers to create large-scale abstract works for residential and commercial spaces.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Pursuing art as a career has certainly come with its share of ups and downs. I believe art and design bring tremendous value to products, brands, spaces, and our everyday lives, but that value isn’t always reflected in how creative work is compensated. There have been discouraging moments, but each time I’ve questioned the path, I’ve connected with someone who genuinely values art and is willing to invest in it.

Owning a creative business requires a strong belief in what you’re building, especially on the difficult days. I’ve received far more “no’s” than “yeses,” and learning not to take that rejection personally has been an important part of my growth. It has taught me to remain resilient, continually put myself and my work out into the world, and trust that the right opportunities and relationships will follow.

I have been blessed by family, friends and other artists that have provided continual encouragement and guidance along the way.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My work is rooted in a desire to bring more peace, beauty, and joy into the world. Creating is a healing experience for me—a way to process emotion and transform it into something that might offer comfort or connection to someone else.

One recent example, after the devastating 2025 floods in the Texas Hill Country, I found myself deeply affected by the loss of the young campers. As a mother, I felt a need to respond. I created Journey to Peace, a painting that honored those beautiful young lives and conveyed a sense of movement toward peace. I was especially proud to donate the piece in support of flood-relief efforts, allowing the work to serve a purpose beyond itself.

Much of my art is inspired by the natural world and photographs I’ve taken while traveling. I’m known for my use of color, texture, and layered masking techniques that alternately reveal and conceal what lies beneath. I think what sets my work apart is the combination of visual beauty and emotional intention that I hope is felt by the viewer.

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Painting of a bird flying in a cloudy sky with blue and green tones, on a white wall.

Abstract painting with blue, beige, and white brushstrokes on a rectangular canvas, hung on a white wall.

Hand holding a paintbrush painting abstract shapes with blue, brown, yellow, and white colors on a canvas.

Abstract painting with soft pastel colors and brushstrokes on a beige wall.

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