Hi, I’m Justin Hillgrove. I started painting seriously (but not too seriously) back in 2005, thanks to a series of random events that steered me in an unexpected direction. It had been years since I’d picked up a brush, but then I inherited some paints and canvases from my grandfather (who I’m named after). Around the same time, I became friends with another artist, the legendary Mike Capp.

At the time, I was planning to buy a motorcycle and join a buddy’s motorcycle gang. But when the sale fell through, I thought, “Why not put that energy into painting instead?” And that’s how my artistic journey began.

It’s been nearly 20 years since then, and I still love painting and creating. I enjoy painting monsters, robots, cats, trees, and the occasional nod to the fandoms, books, and films that inspire me. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work on many fun and exciting projects, including tabletop games, books, comics (such as creating covers for Adventure Time), and murals (for Facebook offices in London, Seattle, and Bellevue). I’ve also dabbled in toy design since 2005, which is special to me because, as a child, my dream was to become a toy designer. I’ve been lucky enough to design plush toys of my characters, as well as licensed toys and figures for Disney, Sanrio, Crunchyroll, MGM, NBC, Netflix, Smoko, Toho, WB, and more.

I’m mostly self-taught, though I did spend a year in Seattle Central Community College’s Design program back in the ’90s. Later, when I tried to return and complete the program, the college wouldn’t let me back in, so I embraced the self-learner route. I eventually landed a job as a graphic designer at a magazine, where I worked until I left to pursue my fine art full-time.

Today, I live in Snohomish, Washington, with my wife, kids, some chickens, a rabbit, a fish, and two cats. My studio is at home, and I’m open to visitors by appointment. My kids grew up traveling and helping me at shows, but as they’ve gotten older and busier, my wife Jessica often accompanies me instead. She also helps with order fulfillment and other business-y things.

Health Note: Since 2019, I’ve been dealing with autoimmune issues that have complicated my life, especially when traveling, attending shows, or committing to scheduled activities. Because of this, I’ve had to slow down and take on fewer projects. I’m not currently accepting commissions, so please don’t be offended if I decline a project. If I’m scheduled for a show, I may have to leave unexpectedly. Thanks for your understanding and patience.

A Quick Shoutout to Mike Capp: Mike is the one who got me into painting back in 2005. Early on, we often traveled and showed our work together. These days, you’ll still find him hanging out and painting with me sometimes. You can check out his work at Mike Capp Art.

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you enjoy the art as much as I’ve enjoyed creating it.