toki mats play mat in cats pattern
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Meet the Artist: Jen B. Peters

December 26, 2022

This is Jen B. Peters. As the creative mind behind two of our newest prints, Cats and Dogs, her work is easily distinguishable by her use of bright colors and whimsical designs. Based in Minneapolis, MN, Peters is a mother, illustrator, and surface pattern designer. Her client list is an impressive one, including big brands like Target, Anthropologie, and Papyrus, who love her work for the same reasons we do. She employs color in a way that few can, using unexpected hues to create eye-catching visuals that are warm and happy. We wanted to learn more about who she is, what fuels her, and how she works as an artist, so we asked her a few questions, and now we share her answers with you.

Jen B Peters, illustrator and surface pattern designers


Q: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Is there anything you’d like us to know?
JBP: I am an illustrator and surface pattern designer, and recently moved back to my hometown in Minneapolis. I am a mom to the two sweetest girls and a Goldendoodle named Harriet. I have a background in graphic design, but most recently enjoy making and illustrating patterns the most.

Q: Does your artwork help you see life through your child’s eyes? Bright, happy, and rose-colored?

JBP: Yes! I have always tried to lean into that childlike sense of wonder with my artwork, and now having littles of my own, it makes this even more true. Kids are the best at living in the moment and noticing small moments of magic.

Q: Does being a mother influence your work, and how so?

JBP: I have less time to work on designs/illustrations these days, so it has made me more efficient and made me overthink my work a little less. My girls inspire me all the time as well! 

toki mats play mat in cats pattern

Q: If you weren’t an artist, what would you have liked to pursue?

JBP: Probably a preschool teacher :)

Q: Where do you draw inspiration from for your illustrations?

JBP: From all around! Long walks always inspire me, and I tend to think of a lot of my ideas while laying in bed at night. 

Q: When you aren’t working or creating, what do you enjoy doing most?

JBP: Spending time with my family, being outdoors, reading, and taking baths. 

Q: How was your experience collaborating with Toki? Did you enjoy creating for a baby brand?

JBP: I absolutely love collaborating with Toki. Working with baby and kid brands is my favorite because that is the phase of life I am currently in, and I feel like my work is whimsical in nature and lends well to kids’ items. The bonus is that I am a huge fan of the brand, and my girls use their Toki mats daily.

Q: What is your favorite thing about your two Toki prints, Cats and Dogs?

JBP: I love how playful and colorful they are. Dogs and cats bring a lot of joy into this world, and I hope these prints do the same! 

toki mats play mat in dogs pattern

Q: How would you describe yourself in three words?

JBP: Creative, kind, and optimistic.

Q: What is your favorite thing to draw or paint?

JBP: Food, plants, flowers, and animals. 

jen b peters, illustrator and surface pattern designer
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Meet the Artist: Jen B. Peters

About the Author: Alice

Alice Mendoza is a copywriter and blog writer based in Los Angeles. She began writing for a baby brand while on maternity leave, and realized she had found her niche. Today, she writes exclusively within the baby space, using her BFA in Creative Writing and her own experience as a mother to guide her. When she’s not working, you can find her chasing down her toddler, going on walks around the neighborhood, or watching reality TV.

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