Lexi K. Nilson

Lexi K. Nilson is an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Illustration at the Pennsylvania College of Art & Design (PCA&D), where she contributes to the education of emerging illustrators. She holds a BFA in Illustration from Brigham Young University and an MFA in Illustration Practice from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). Her creative work spans illustration, writing, animation, and design, with a focus on finding magic in everyday moments.

Her research and creative interests center on whimsical narrative illustration, children’s literature, editorial art, surface design, and the development of personal creative practices. She explores themes of softness, play, and storytelling across media, often blending humor and sophistication in her visual language.

Her notable creative output includes the illustrated book Jane Was Here: An Illustrated Guide to Jane Austen’s England (2020), published by Hardie Grant UK, and editorial work for The Washington Post, Deseret Magazine, and other clients. Her work reflects trends in narrative illustration, literary visualization, and contemporary visual commentary.

• Communication Arts Award of Excellence, 2023

Lexi mentors aspiring creatives through her teaching and through StarSneeze Studio, an online art club she founded to foster creative growth. While no formal grant details are listed, her book project originated from a grant-funded research trip to England in 2018. She is actively engaged in writing and illustrating new children’s books and continues to expand her creative practice.

She founded and runs StarSneeze Studio, an online creative community offering tutorials, live sessions, prompts, and resources to help members develop their artistic skills and confidence. The studio serves as both a creative enterprise and an educational platform, reflecting her commitment to accessible, encouraging art education.