Live Fashion Illustration 101

Learn the unique art of live fashion illustration with Toronto-based illustrator Nessa Lilly, known for capturing the elegance and energy of fashion moments. Inspired by the Bata Shoe Museum’s new exhibition André Perugia: A Design Legend Unveiled, this hands-on workshop will teach you how to bring fashion to life through quick, expressive sketches in 5 minutes or less. Nessa will guide participants through the dynamic process of live fashion illustration — a rare skill that blends speed, intuition, and artistry to capture style in motion to create original editorial style portraits.

In this workshop you will:

• Learn how professional illustrators capture movement, texture, and design in real time, creating a complete drawing in less than 5 minutes
• Practice gesture and proportion techniques inspired by Perugia’s sculptural shoe forms
• Gain insight into what it’s like to work as a live fashion illustrator at shows, events, and brand activations

No prior drawing experience is needed — just curiosity and creativity. This is a unique opportunity to learn a skill rarely taught in traditional art programs, while exploring the legacy of one of fashion’s most innovative designers.

About the Instructor: Nessa Lilly is a Toronto-based fashion illustration studio led by Vanessa Lilly, whose career spans live fashion illustration, high-profile brand collaborations, and fine art fashion pieces. With a deep interest in fashion, Vanessa transitioned from a successful ten-year career in the industry to her illustration business, now working with prestigious clients such as Goop, Saks Fifth Avenue, Levi’s, and Bobbi Brown. Vaness's fine art underscores her versatile and artistic vision. Through her work, Vanessa continues to blend artistry and fashion, creating pieces that resonate with elegance.

 Please review our Terms and Conditions in advance and check in with Visitor Services upon arrival. Questions? Email us info@batashoemuseum.ca anytime.