Katie Hildermann

In a previous chapter of my life, I worked as an aircraft mechanic—an experience that deeply shaped how I see and interact with the world. The precision, structure, and problem-solving that defined that role continue to influence my creative process today. Growing up around my dad, who was always working with his hands and materials, further sparked my appreciation for repurposing and reimagining everyday objects.

Now, as an artist, I blend those technical roots with abstract expression. I often use unconventional materials—like old metal siding—as my canvas, bringing a sense of history and texture to my work. For me, art is about bridging the mechanical with the emotional, the rigid with the raw. Every piece I create carries echoes of my past and invites a fresh perspective on what art can be.

While I’ve taken a handful of art classes over the years, the majority of my artistic education has come through self-teaching and hands-on experimentation. Drawing and painting are skills I’ve developed largely on my own—by observing, exploring different techniques, and allowing curiosity to lead the way. This self-guided approach has given me the freedom to discover my own style and creative process outside of traditional structures.