We’re looking forward to introducing you to Lauren Connolly. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Lauren, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
I lose track of time when I’m fully engaged in something creative or meaningful—whether that’s working on a project I care about, brainstorming new ideas, or collaborating with others to solve a problem. I love that feeling of flow where everything else fades into the background. I find myself again by taking a step back—spending time outside, journaling, or just having a quiet moment to reflect. Those pauses help me reset and come back with more clarity and perspective.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m currently in a transition period — still based in Ohio for the next year so my son can finish high school, while my husband is already living full-time in Key West. Once he graduates, I’ll be joining my husband there permanently. This year is really about creative preparation and momentum. I’m focused on building my portfolio and developing new work to share with studios and collaborators in the Keys.
My brand, Wild Developments Studio, is rooted in creativity, connection, and storytelling. The mission behind it is to create art that celebrates individuality and inspires people to see beauty in the process of growth and change — both in art and in life. Every piece is meant to feel alive, a reflection of transformation and the wild, imperfect nature of creativity itself. I’m excited to bring that energy to Key West’s vibrant creative community and to continue growing Wild Developments Studio in a place that feels so aligned with its spirit.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
The events of 2020 really shifted how I see the world. That year forced all of us to slow down, reflect, and take a hard look at what truly matters. For me, it was eye-opening to realize how much connection, creativity, and community mean — and how easily we can take those things for granted in the rush of everyday life. It made me more intentional about how I spend my time and who I spend it with. That perspective has shaped both my life and my creative work through Wild Developments Studio — it reminded me that art has the power to bring people together, to heal, and to tell stories that matter even when the world feels uncertain.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me things that success never could — mainly, how to rely fully on God and trust His timing even when I can’t see the full picture. In difficult seasons, I’ve learned that strength doesn’t come from striving or control, but from surrender and faith. Those moments stripped away distractions and helped me see what really matters: purpose, relationships, and the quiet guidance that comes from listening to God’s voice.
That perspective has shaped the heart of Wild Developments Studio. It’s not just about creating beautiful work; it’s about creating from a place of gratitude, faith, and authenticity. The hard times taught me to build something meaningful — something that reflects grace, growth, and the beauty that can come from brokenness. Success might celebrate results, but suffering refined my purpose and reminded me Who I’m doing it for.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies I think the creative industry tells itself is that success is measured by constant output, perfection, or social validation. There’s this pressure to always be producing, comparing, and performing — and it can strip the joy and authenticity out of the creative process.
I’ve learned that real creativity doesn’t come from hustle; it comes from stillness, faith, and honesty. The truth is, some of the most meaningful work is created in quiet seasons — the ones that don’t always make it to social media. At Wild Developments Studio, I try to challenge that mindset by focusing on purpose over perfection. I want my work to be rooted in something real — faith, growth, and connection — not in chasing trends or numbers. Art should remind us who we are, not make us forget.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. How do you know when you’re out of your depth?
I know I’m out of my depth when I start feeling disconnected — when the peace is gone, and I’m trying to control everything instead of trusting the process. Over time, I’ve learned that those moments are actually invitations to pause and lean on God rather than push harder. It’s a reminder that I don’t have to have all the answers; I just have to stay open and teachable.
In my creative work and in building Wild Developments Studio, that awareness has become really important. When something feels too big or unfamiliar, instead of seeing it as failure, I see it as a chance to grow — to ask for help, pray for direction, and keep learning. Those ‘out of my depth’ moments are usually where the most meaningful transformation begins.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.WildDevelopmentsStudio.com
- Instagram: @wilddevelopmentsstudio
- Linkedin: @wilddevelopmentsstudio
- Facebook: @wilddevelopmentsstudio
- Youtube: @wilddevelopmentsstudio
Image Credits
Lauren Connolly
