Meet the Artist

Hillary Gillett
Soul Splatter Works
Artist's Statement
My art is a reflection of the world as I see it—raw, layered, and full of contradictions. Deeply influenced by the grit and vibrancy of street art, I gravitate toward what’s often overlooked: the clash between beauty and discomfort, the tension between what’s seen and what’s hidden. I’m drawn to the “nitty gritty”—the imperfect and unpolished realities of everyday life that speak louder than curated perfection.
I work primarily in acrylic and spray paint, often creating portraits and figures that combine graffiti-inspired textures with bold color palettes and pop culture references. My evolving style reflects a constant curiosity and commitment to experimentation—I’m always pushing myself to try new techniques and explore different visual languages. This journey of growth is just as important as the final piece.
My recent work intersects classical art influences with modern cultural commentary. I use satire and visual storytelling to explore social issues, often portraying subjects and experiences that aren’t easily discussed—mental health, poverty, identity, and injustice. I believe art has the power to hold space for difficult conversations and shared truths.
As a bi-racial member of the LGBT+ community, my perspective informs everything I create. Representation matters to me. I intentionally incorporate a wide range of skin tones, identities, and lived experiences into my work—voices that are too often excluded from the mainstream. My art also explores themes of gender identity and queerness, reflecting the fluidity and complexity of who we are.
Painting gives me peace in a world that often feels overwhelming. Through my work, I aim to create a connection—to offer viewers a moment of recognition, empathy, or challenge. I want people to see not only the art, but the truth behind it. My highest goal is for my work to mean something—to reflect something real.
Looking at my pieces is an invitation to step inside a moment. A feeling. A shared experience. And perhaps, to see the world—and each other—with new eyes.