In this episode of Art & Cocktails, I sit down with Lauren E. Peters, a Delaware-based visual artist whose powerful self-portraits explore themes of identity, gender, performance, and creative evolution. Lauren reflects on her return to painting after a long hiatus, how she uses costumes and color to construct personas, and the deep emotional and intellectual layers behind her work.

We talk about what it means to be both an artist and arts professional, how to navigate creative slow seasons without guilt, and the mindset behind sustaining a meaningful, long-term practice. Lauren’s story is a reminder that growth in the studio—and in life—rarely happens on a straight timeline.

Lauren was also featured in Issue 51 of Create! Magazine.

About the ArtistLauren E. Peters is a visual artist based in Wilmington, Delaware. Working in self-portraiture, she explores identity and gender through costuming, vibrant color, and narrative references. She was awarded both Emerging and Established Artist Fellowships from the Delaware Division of the Arts and has attended residencies including the Vermont Studio Center and Soaring Gardens. Lauren is currently a studio artist at The Delaware Contemporary.

Topics Discussed

* Returning to art after a break and discovering self-portraiture

* Costumes as armor, persona, and storytelling devices

* Balancing artistic practice with a day job in the arts

* Using Greek mythology, vintage textiles, and color to build visual language

* The importance of creative seasons and rest

* Personal reflections on community, burnout, and sustainability

* Building a body of work over time without rushing the process

Connect with Lauren E. PetersWebsite: www.laurenepeters.comInstagram: @lauren.ed.petersNewsletter: Subscribe via her website

Featured InLauren was featured in Create! Magazine Issue 51.View the issue at www.createmagazine.co

More from Create!To explore artist features, open calls, and resources, visit www.createmagazine.co or subscribe to this Substack for thoughtful conversations and insights from today’s contemporary artists.

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