Hello!

I’m Shawna

After getting a Bachelor’s in Studio Art from Cal State LA, I immediately had a flare of ulcerative colitis which informed the rest of my life, how I saw myself, and the world.

Needing health insurance and always having a desire to work with kids, I got a certificate to teach preschool, which I happily did until I got married and had another flare of ulcerative colitis.

My husband and I chased his career while I healed and ventured to learn how to write and illustrate picture books. This is why I have such an extensive kidlit portfolio. I am looking for representation in this area and if you are an interested literary agent, feel free to email me at shawnazilla@gmail.com.

In the meantime, I’ve gone back to my roots of creating fine art in the studio. Having been trained in classical oil painting, I currently create and sell original watercolors, a medium which I love and also keeps costs down for customers.

I’m inspired by my love of cats, dreams, nature, symbolism, and all things weird.

Shawna lives in the greater Los Angeles area with her husband and their cat Totoro.