But could I really make a living as in illustrator? Me, Manhattan, 1989

Join me for my newest in-person course, Sketchbook Journaling, at Maxima Hive in Arlington.

Perhaps you're looking for a cozy weekly gathering for art-making. Maybe you want a relaxed class for sketchbook art with watercolor and gel pens and colored pencils along with some tasty journal prompts.

I’ve been wanting to teach in real life, to enjoy working with people in a lovely space, but I hadn’t found the right spot until I found the perfect place—the charming Maxima Book and Gift shop on Mass Ave in Arlington, MA, which now has a cozy new space for courses and events, called the Hive.

This course is more laid-back and for all levels. If you live in the Boston area, let’s sip coffee and play in sketchbooks, with journal prompts, experimenting with materials, lots of watercolor and gouache demonstrations, and camaraderie for five Thursday mornings beginning Feb. 5. Space is very limited. Sign up here.

I just had an idea! We can literally hop right next door to Derby Farm to look at their stunning flowers and take photos to draw back at Maxima. I'm also going to bring my mini-printer, the Sprocket, so everyone can print out a photo sticker to pop in their sketchbook! And next door in the other direction is QueBrada coffee shop where we can get coffee and take photos of their pretty pastries to draw back in the studio.

Join me! This one will fill.

I’m so so thrilled to announce my next European art retreat, September 28 – October 5, 2026, this time in sunny, gorgeous Tuscany, where all our needs are taken care of so we can make art, eat yummy food, make new friends and delight in a few exciting adventures.

This retreat is a creative buffet, meant to inspire you to create gorgeous vintage lettering, stylish borders, unique motifs, lovely pastel textures, watercoloring flowers, and even some Procreate techniques! It's a way to get you excited about your art, enrich your style and, if you like, make portfolio pieces. All levels, all goals invited!

I’m thrilled to offer my newest thing— Inner Circle, an exclusive small-group mentoring intensive. For 30 years, I nurtured and guided the artists whom I represented, helping them uncover their strengths and build thriving creative careers, and now I want to do the same for you.

Join me for this incredible experience! Read more here, and sign up now, as the previous Inner Circle sold out very quickly. I can't wait to help you achieve your dream!

How would you describe Inner Circle to a friend?
Student Ilana Diamond writes: It’s a rare and beautiful chance to be mentored by a generous, wise artist who really takes the time to understand you. Lilla doesn’t just teach—she listens. She learns about what drives you, what holds you back, and where you want to go. Then she offers thoughtful, actionable guidance to help you get there. She’s a wellspring of insight, experience, and support, and I feel so lucky to have been one of the twelve to learn from her. I’m walking away with more clarity, more confidence, and a deeper belief in my path as an artist.

After thirty years of mentoring artists, I've now gone back to making art again. I didn't ever really stop, but I'm back with a gusto and passion that I haven't felt in quite some time.

Join our bestselling children’s book illustration course! In this online course you’ll create a brilliant children’s book pitch to help you land your dream children’s book gig. You’ll get videos, weekly assignments, live weekly video reviews, interviews with publishers and illustrators and more. Co-taught by top art agent Lilla Rogers and highly-respected children’s book author art director Zoë Tucker, you’ll get 3 exclusive texts plus insider knowledge and hints and tips  from the experts.

Illustration by Make Art That Sells student Darcie Olley