About the Author

I’m Julie-Ann Mitchell, a visual artist, author and illustrator, and the creator of Nilla Stories.

For more than twenty years, I’ve explored meditation through light, colour, perception and the wonder of everyday moments. Patterns of light, rainbow colours, reflections, nature and beauty that many people walk past without even noticing have become the inspiration behind both my artwork and stories.

I’m fascinated by how attention shapes our experience of the world. That understanding sits at the heart of Nilla Stories, guiding everything I create—from hand-painted picture books and sensory tools to creative activities that invite children to slow down, become curious and discover the wonder already waiting in the world around them.

The first book in the collection, Nilla’s Rainbow Heart, introduces children to meditation through story, sensory experiences and the simple act of noticing.

Many of the moments that inspire Nilla Stories begin in my own life. I photograph and share them on TikTok at @crossesoflight, alongside time-lapse videos of my painting process, offering a glimpse into how each illustration—and each idea—comes to life.

At the heart of Nilla Stories is a simple motto:

Noticing shapes your world.