Hiller's Artist Statement

I started painting around the age of 40. I had long been an observer of contemporary art, and in particular nonrepresentational works; but had never taken an art class or tried my hand at painting. On a whim, I attended a local art class with a wonderful teacher who allowed me to be successful during my first class. I left the class inspired and full of anticipation that I might be able to learn how to express myself through the medium of paint. I quickly learned how to mix paints and draw and paint a still life. I was drawn, however, to more non-representational forms and quickly became interested in how color, texture, and shape can create mood, thought, and more importantly for me--emotion.

Art is an exploration of emotion. I use color to explore feelings such as joy, sadness, peacefulness, anger, exhilaration. I’m particularly drawn to juxtaposing blue and orange, which represents both energy and calmness. Additionally, I use shape and texture to provide more richness and depth to the work. I move along a continuum from geometric to organic forms without seeing a dichotomy. I find it difficult to finish a canvass—there is something so final about saying, “This piece of art is completed.” I like the unfinished look and feel of art because it reminds me that there is always more work to be done, whether I am painting a canvas, conducting my professional life as an educator, or loving and being loved by my family. By and large I paint for myself; however, if others can enjoy and appreciate what I have created, I am all the more pleased.