I graduated University of Kansas with a degree in Painting and a concentration in Art History. My work seemed to take its course shortly after graduation when I realized I could paint whatever I wanted without the constraints of my professor's requirements. Armed with a love of pop art, design, tattoo flash, Koi fish and all things retro I began my career starting with collages of vintage food ads and working my way up to my own brand of “pulp fiction” on canvas, combining vintage life magazines with the drama and style of the 1950’s movie yarns.
When I had my fill of gluing paper on canvas I moved back into the more traditional genre of painting. I’ve always loved the beauty of Asian art (especially Koi fish and dragons) and thought the contrast between it and a more urban, pop style of work would be a perfect starting point for me. From there I began my ICON series, focusing on legends of our past and present, some talented, some notorious, but all legendary and all subjects dear to my heart.
My next venture is Equine Art, combing the beauty and elegance of the horse juxtaposed with extreme color, flash and pop.
The phrase holds true, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” People seem to be drawn to my work or run wildly for the hills, as if they'd turn into a pillar of salt upon looking back! It’s not your typical landscape or bowl of fruit and very rarely could one hang it in one’s living room. It’s certainly not for everyone and I’m just fine with that! I love what I do.
My other passion is writing. I have two wonderful babies, a wonderful husband and even a wonderful dog! We live in the Chicago area and yes, my artwork is hung in my living room!
Thanks for checking it out!
Hilary L. Wagner
