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Welcome to Speed Art Dating: a micro retreat.

Lilla Rogers is one of the most successful illustration agents in the industry as well as an author, beloved teacher and visionary entrepreneur. It should come as no surprise than that she is also doing some super amazing things for the over three dozen high-caliber artists she represents.

This past weekend, Lilla hosted an incredible micro retreat at her colorful studio and home outside of Boston MA. Six of her top artists flew in from all over North America and had the chance to meet with Creative Directors from top companies.

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Fresh Flowers from Lilla’s Garden

Lilla with her inimitable brand of wit, warmth, and wisdom is a natural teacher. She taught two inspiring and creative workshops during the retreat with these artists:

  • Helen Dardik
  • Lisa DeJohn
  • Carolyn Gavin
  • Tara Lilly, Global Talent Search 2014 Winner
  • Suzy Ultman
  • Sarah Walsh

On the first day, Lilla led the artists in Creative Workshop 1: “Block Printing”. The artists carved large rubber blocks and then printed onto lush silks and linens creating incredibly fresh patterns. We couldn’t believe what they came up with!

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clockwise top left:  Tara Lilly: 2014 Global Talent Search Winner, Carolyn Gavin, Lisa DeJohn

A delicious lunch was served while the artists mingled with the VIP’s from extraordinary companies. Following, each Director shared a small presentation about their industry and company. They wowed all of us with amazing industry insights … everything from children’s book publishing to high end designer napkins to putting together a home decor baby line.

Next up was the innovative speed art dating, where each artist had the rare opportunity to sit down face to face with each VIP and pitch ideas directly to these hot decision-makers. There was even a yoga and relaxing station to keep everyone recharged!

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Artists Suzy Ultman and Sarah Walsh speed art date with VIP’s Margo Tantau and Jessica Saint Jean
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Margo Tantau highlighting Suzy Ultman’s pillow in her presentation

A huge thank you to all of the following Art Directors that came and offered their expertise and insights. It was invaluable.

  • Margo Tantau, VP of Creative, Midwest CBK
  • Mary Ann Hall, Executive Editor, Rockport Publishers/Quarto
  • Judy Labins, Creative Director, Boston International
  • Jessica Saint Jean, Art Coordinator, Candlewick Press
  • Kristen Nobles, Art Director, Candlewick Press

On Day Two, Lilla taught Creative Workshop 2: “Mod Machine Embroidery”. Lilla is a natural at learning new technologies and always pushes herself to learn more. She LOVES sharing and teaching what she learns to others!

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Lilla teaching the Embrilliance software to Lisa DeJohn and Carolyn Gavin

The artists learned how to digitize their custom artwork with the Embrilliance software on the computer. Then, using the cutting edge Janome 15000 Embroidery machine they embroidered their custom designs stitching onto beautiful linens. The artists took right to it and started creating gorgeous designs! They are hipping up this new technology.

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Helen Dardik’s kitty in design mode               
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Helen Dardik’s kitty being stitched
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Suzy Ultman’s strawberry bird

We already can’t wait for Lilla’s Retreat 2016! Head over to Instagram & follow @Lillarogers and browse the #LillasRetreat tag here to see all of the awesome photos that were posted and shared by the lucky guests.

Also don’t miss out on learning from this incredibly gifted teacher, Lilla Rogers, and sign up for MATS A or MATS B that begins Oct. 19th!

xo,

Lilla Rogers Studio Ladies & Make Art That Sells Team

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