You adore picturebooks and have some great ideas for one of your own (This is so exciting!!! ❤️📚). But turning your notes and sketches into a fully developed story can be tricky. Plus writing and illustrating gets lonely (specially when you’re trying to send your creative work out into the world).
But now you have the caring support of authors and illustrators who’ve won awards and published all over the world!
Whether you’re starting your first book (or you’ve published dozens), join us at our Inky Larks rooftop retreats in Rome: we’ll share knowledge and inspiration, help you hone your craft and develop your story into a professional dummy book that you can send out to agents and publishers. Plus you’ll have a loving and creative band of friends to turn to – even after the retreat is over!
Find out about the 2024 retreats and tutors…
The Library:
You have at your disposal a wonderful library of children’s books as well as beautiful studio space to focus on your project and get into creative flow.
The Picturebook Nest:
Our sunny rooftop-studio and home in the heart of Rome,
where four generations of art are displayed on the walls, as well as a collection of old masters and artwork by children’s book illustrators.
A Stunning Neighbourhood:
Take your sketchbook for a stroll: there are fascinating Roman ruins, churches with Caravaggios, romantic cobbled streets and fountains – all at a stone’s throw away (ask Allegra for suggestions if you want some lesser known gems to visit!)
Reviews about our Studio and Location:
“I can’t wait to come back!” – Helen
“This rooftop hideaway has a library of children’s books, writing space, artist’s materials and beautiful outdoor terrace. Art lines the walls and the skyline surrounds you. A perfect place to get inspiration.” – Charlotte
“The most amazing house filled with beautiful paintings done by Diletta’s family. The location was perfect, just a short walk from the Pantheon, Corsini Gallery and Roman Forum therefore so convenient and easy to get around. We felt very welcomed and absolutely loved our stay there, Diletta was so helpful and gave us fantastic advice about where to go and what to see.” – Mathilda
“What a literary treat it is to spend time in Rome at the beautiful terrace studio of @dilettachiaralunadonati. A weekend of creating, discussing and dreaming big… Together with my fellow MA Children’s Lit alumni, we were lucky enough to be the first visitors.” – Susannah.
“The house and space is beautiful and fantastically convenient, while being steeped in history and culture. There are churches around every corner filled with stunning art, especially the Santa Maria Trestevere, the San Pietro in Vincoli and many more.” – Polhana
Find out about the 2024 retreats and tutors…
Italian 
English