Elizabeth Waggett Artist Collaboration
Artist: Elizabeth Waggett
Launching The Regular Program was all about building a community of creatives. Quite intentionally we opened our doors in the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles, and we have slowly been outreaching to find collaborating artists who are searching for unique, timeless, and minimal dressing. I’m so excited to share our first collaborating artist: Elizabeth Waggett. As a fellow fashion lover, mother, and undeniable creative- we sat down to ask her some questions about her craft.
Q: Is there a specific way you want people to perceive your art?
A: My art is a reflection of the delicate balance between strength and fragility, nature and emotion. I’m captivated by the beauty and symbolism found in the natural world, particularly through creatures like bees, lobsters, and lions. Each of these animals carries its own energy—bees represent community and resilience, lobsters embody transformation and protection, and lions exude power and majesty. By painting them, I explore themes of survival, vulnerability, and empowerment. I’m constantly exploring the narrative that everything beautiful is haunted, the notion that there is such depth, emotion, trauma and resilience in all of us and nature - we are irrevocably connected. When you look at the life cycle of a bee and its constant work, it's so tragic, yet so beautiful, and that is all life.
I want people to feel empowered when they experience my art, to find inspiration in the strength of the creatures I paint and to see their own power reflected in the gold or silver on the canvas. I believe art has the ability to resonate on a deeply personal level, and if my work can stir something within the viewer, I feel I’ve succeeded.
Q: What does it mean to you to inspire women?
A: Inspiring women means fostering a sense of community and collaboration, whether it's through mentorship, shared experiences, or creating platforms that amplify female voices. Ultimately, to inspire women is to reflect their strength and complexity back to them through my art, reminding them that they, too, have the ability to transform the world.
Q: Can you share some of your favourite pieces?
A: Right now, I am finding so much love in the physical act of making my large light paintings that are filled with energy, movement, and a sense of freedom. The scale of the work demands that I use my whole body, and this physicality brings me immense joy, especially considering that three years ago I was paralyzed from the waist down. To be able to stand, move, and pour myself into each sweeping gesture is not only a creative release, but also a personal triumph.
Q: You’re a new mother, how do you balance working and being a mom?
A: Balancing being a working mother as a visual artist requires intention, flexibility, and a strong sense of priorities. It's about finding a rhythm that works for both my creative practice and my family life, though it’s certainly not always easy. Here’s how I approach it:
- Setting Boundaries: I’ve learned the importance of setting boundaries for both my work and family time. When I’m in my studio, I carve out dedicated hours to fully immerse myself in my art without distractions.
- Embracing Flexibility: Flexibility is key. Sometimes, inspiration hits during nontraditional hours, or family needs shift unexpectedly. I’ve learned to adapt my schedule when necessary, allowing room for the unpredictable nature of both motherhood and the creative process. I don’t punish myself when things don’t go according to plan; instead, I embrace the ebb and flow.
- Involving My Children: My daughter is a source of inspiration in my work, and I involve her in my creative world whenever possible. Whether it’s having her in the studio with me or sharing what I’m working on, I try to create an environment where she feels a part of my artistic journey.
- Prioritizing Self-Care: this one I find the hardest. It’s easy to overlook self-care when balancing multiple roles, but I’ve found that taking care of myself—physically, emotionally, and mentally—is essential. Rest and time to recharge are necessary not only for being a good mother but also for staying creatively inspired.
- Letting Go of Perfection: Accepting that I can’t do it all, or that not everything will be perfect, has been a liberating lesson. There are days when I feel like I’m excelling as an artist but falling short as a mother, and vice versa. I’ve learned to extend grace to myself and recognize that balance is less about perfection and more about making space for both passions in my life.
A: As an artist, I’m constantly moving between the studio and events, and having a brand that allows me to effortlessly transition from painting to more formal settings is invaluable. Their classic, iconic styles are not only comfortable and easy to wear while I’m working, but they also have that polished, elevated look that lets me walk into any event feeling confident and put-together.
Even on days when I have a long studio list and don’t have time to change, I can rely on The Regular Program’s pieces to keep me feeling both functional and stylish. The limited-edition designs bring that sense of individuality I love as an artist, while their emphasis on timeless fashion means I can wear them again and again without feeling like I’m chasing fleeting trends. It's a brand that makes me feel polished, no matter where my day takes me.