Today we’d like to introduce you to Alannah Tiller
Hi Alannah, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey into art wasn’t the most direct one. My only formal training was a Painting 1 class I took during my undergraduate studies as a requirement for my Art History degree. To my surprise, I sold every single painting from that class, and looking back, I think that was the first time the idea of being a working artist was planted in my head.
Even so, I initially pursued a more academic path, earning a BA in Art History from Texas State and an MA in Museum Studies from the University of Oklahoma. Along the way, I worked in a variety of art-related jobs—I was a framer, a gallery manager at an art consultancy, a museum ambassador at the Nasher Sculpture Center.
My husband and I traveled quite a bit, and between moves back to Texas, we made the decision that I should take a real shot at focusing on my own art. With no formal training in digital illustration, I taught myself how to draw using the free version of Procreate. I connected with a local printer who generously showed me how to set up my files for prints and stickers. From there, I built my first website, did my first pop-up, and made a grand total of $20. It was slow going at first, but I kept at it.
Everything changed in 2020 when I decided to launch a fundraiser. My online community rallied behind it, and overnight, my small shop went from a handful of orders to over 300. That moment was the turning point. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with brands like Warby Parker, Whataburger, Michaels, and West Elm, and my art has reached people in ways I never could have imagined when I first started.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t always been easy. I’m incredibly lucky to have a partner like Joshua, who has supported me since the very beginning. He’s been so integral to the success of aLILscribble—giving me the time and space to be creative and explore has truly been the greatest blessing.
That said, there have been plenty of challenges along the way. For the first two years, I barely had any sales, which was discouraging but also a lesson in patience and perseverance. I had to navigate contracts, often learning the hard way. I’ve had my artwork stolen and resold without my permission, dealt with difficult clients, and created pieces that simply didn’t sell. Each of these struggles felt tough in the moment, but looking back, they were all essential to getting me where I am today. Every setback taught me something valuable—whether it was how to better protect my work, refine my business, or simply trust the process.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As aLILscribble, I specialize in creating artwork that blends whimsical illustration, surreal elements, and bold line work, all with a touch of playfulness and depth. My style is a fusion of modern surrealism, pop art, and illustrative storytelling. I often incorporate elements of nature, human emotions, and abstract compositions, which brings a sense of movement and personality to each piece.
I work with a mix of hand-drawn and digital techniques, which allows me to add intricate details while maintaining an expressive, distinctive feel. My work is often fluid, with organic shapes and a flow that feels alive, engaging, and full of character.
What sets me apart is how I merge these influences and techniques to create art that feels both grounded and imaginative. I aim to evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, inviting viewers to find meaning in the abstract and to connect with the emotion behind each piece.
The project I am most proud of has to be the mural I completed at The Moody Center in Austin, TX. It was my first large-scale project, and it was incredibly challenging to complete. I was so honored to be selected, and it really made me reflect on how far I’ve come in my journey as an artist. That project opened my eyes to how much more there is out there for me to explore and create, and it’s been a defining moment in my career.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My advice to those just starting out is simple: just make art. It doesn’t have to be “good” at first, just create. The more you create, the more you’ll learn, and over time, your style and skills will develop. Persistence is key, because running a business is no easy feat.
Be willing to learn, whether that’s about your craft or the business side of things. There will be a lot of trial and error, but each step is a learning opportunity. Also, don’t be afraid to delegate tasks that aren’t in your wheelhouse. It’s okay to ask for help when you need it—whether it’s from a mentor, a peer, or someone who can assist with the parts of your business that you might not be able to do yourself. It’s all about building a support system and being open to growth.
Pricing:
- Art Prints – $15-$45
- Stickers – $3-$5
- Pins – $10
- Hats – $25
- aLILscribble.com – LILdiscount for 20% OFF
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aLILscribble.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alilscribble
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alilscribble
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alilscribble/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@aLILscribble
