The Drawing Board
A space to talk all things kid lit, through workshops, mentorships and/or intensive sessions.
This isn’t really about learning how to draw perfectly. It’s about finding ways to push our art a little further together.
Come ready to brainstorm and play!
Welcome to The Drawing Board !
Currently OPEN:
Illustrating LOUDLY
A 4 week Portfolio Intensive for Aspiring KidLit Illustrators
July 8th – July 29th 2026
Tuition Fee: $250 USD
Limited to 6 artists only.
Application deadline: June 15th
Accepted applicants will be notified by June 25th
This is small-group intensive for illustrators who are ready to begin their illustration journey and want guidance on polishing up their portfolios. I’ll also share my personal insights into the Kid Lit world through both my experiences and the things I’m still learning in my own journey as an author-illustrator.
Together, we’ll work through the kinds of creative challenges and deadlines that come with being an illustrator in publishing, from responding to a creative brief to getting sketches approved before moving into final art. We’ll discuss storytelling, pacing, communicating with editors and art directors, and what actually makes an image stay with someone emotionally…stronger, maybe weirder, and especially more YOU.
**This workshop is for artist who already know the fundamentals of illustration and ready to get their work out there. This is not a drawing class. Enrollment is limited to 6 artists only. Must have a working portfolio to review.
Let’s get your art as sparkly and unforgettable as you are.
Schedule Details for Summer 2026:
Wednesdays
7:00–8:30 PM EST
July 8, 15, 22, & 29
Via Zoom
Studio Policies
All workshop, mentorships and intensive purchases are non-refundable.
Please make sure you’re able to attend the live sessions before enrolling.
If an emergency arises and you can no longer attend prior to the start of the workshop, please contact me at hello@ninamata.com
Niña Mata Illustrations reserves the right to cancel or reschedule the workshop if minimum enrollment is not met or due to unforeseen circumstances. In that case, enrolled students will receive a full refund.
By purchasing any workshop, intensives or mentorship, you agree to these terms.
For additional questions you can email me at hello@ninamata.com
Community & Respect
These workshops and or mentorships are meant to be a supportive, encouraging, and respectful creative space for everyone involved.
Harassment, discrimination, hateful language, bullying, or consistently disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. Niña Mata Illustrations reserves the right to remove any participant from the workshop without refund if their behavior negatively impacts the safety or experience of others in the group.
Please be kind, thoughtful, and respectful of each artist’s work, identity, and creative journey. Thank you.