Robert Hillestad

Robert Hillestad, emeritus professor of clothing, textiles, and design at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, is a studio artist and design educator. He works with fiber and fabric to create wall pieces and sculpture for commercial and residential interiors, garments, accessories, and one-of-a-kind designs for individuals and families to celebrate special occasions. His work has been shown in more than 150 juried and invitational shows in the United States and abroad and is included in many corporate, private and museum collections.

Much of Hillestad’s inspiration comes from nature—the plumage of birds, the mystery of geodes, the grace of fish. “I have long regarded working with textiles as a celebration unto itself,” says Hillestad. “Some of my most joyful moments are embedded in the pieces I create.” Hillestad has described his intuitive construction process in this way: “The medium of textiles and I become partners. Sometimes I take the lead by providing direction for what will happen next. At other times, characteristics of the materials and techniques guide me along. As partners, we form a symbiotic relationship. The pace of our interaction starts out slowly as each responds to the other. As we work together, rhythms develop, patterns emerge and art forms evolve. It is an exhilarating process which I refer to as choreography in fiber, the dance of textiles.”

The University of Nebraska has a Gallery named for him: "The Robert Hillestad Textiles Gallery" on the east campus in Lincoln, where it is on the second floor of the Home Economics Building as part of the Department of Textiles, Clothing and Design in the UNL College of Educaton and Human Sciences.