Lauren Clayton, The Seaport, NYC 2024

Artist Bio: Lauren Clayton is an artist, graphic designer, and founder of Studio 162 in Stamford, CT. She studied at the Cooper Union School of Art in NYC before winning a grant to help launch her business in 2003. Lauren began to specialize in designing family heirloom books at the start of her business but has grown to offer a variety of creative solutions from murals to websites for companies like GE and Playtex. In recent years, Lauren has developed a special focus on working for non-profit organizations whose mission she supports with powerful art and design.

Artist statement: Mental health is critically important for us all. It’s alarming how many of us are in need of help, and yearning for more positivity and healthy thoughts. I was happy and flattered to have been asked to paint alongside talented artists for this year’s festival. The project reminds me of my own journey with mental health, and how I use my art as a form of meditation. Drawing and painting are my healthy distractions from overthinking. I hope that my mural inspires someone to look around, and reach for someone who needs love or reach for someone when they themselves need support. The mural is perhaps the most powerful piece I’ve painted publicly, and I hope it resonates with the community.

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