Hello! I’m Lauren, an illustrator and author living in Utah. My stories and illustrations are fueled by my love of animals, nature, and childhood nostalgia. Using traditional media (watercolors and pastels), my goal is to create whimsical & surreal picture books that stoke the imagination and a sense of wonder.

I am currently earning my MFA in Children’s Literature and Illustration at Hollins University. I am also a member of SCBWI and seeking representation.

Thanks for visiting!

Contact: lauren.mcpheters@gmail.com

Social: lauren.mcpheters

Awards/Achievements:

SCBWI New York Conference 2025 Student Illustrator Scholarship

SCBWI/Hollins University Scholarship winner in 2024 and 2025

ChLA 2025 Conference Panelist: The Power of Picture Books— Surrealism in Picture Books

PB Rising Stars Program Runner-Up Prize 2025

Beatrix Potter Scholarship Recipient 2023 and 2024

The Margarette Kate’s Award for Visual Art 2023

Francelia Butler Conference Peer Choice Award for Visual Art 2022, 2024, & 2025