KAT TILLMAN is a vibrant and innovative painter known for her joyful and playful creations that transcend traditional canvases. Working primarily with acrylics, Kat began her artistic journey on canvas but has recently expanded her practice to include murals, cars, caravans, surfboards, and more—essentially any surface that sparks her imagination. Her style, best described as naïve, bright, and fun, draws from a rich palette of 90s nostalgia, influenced by the likes of Reg Mombassa, Ken Done, and the whimsical worlds of kids' cartoons and graphic novels.
With a background in communication design and experience as both a student and lecturer at Billy Blue College of Design, Kat brings a unique perspective to her self-taught artistry. Her work invites viewers to step into a world of joy and familiarity, evoking childlike memories and encouraging them to attach their own stories to the vibrant scenes she creates.
Kat has showcased her work in three solo exhibitions and participated in two group shows, steadily building a reputation for art that resonates on a deeply personal level. Through her work, she hopes to connect with audiences by sparking a sense of joy and nostalgia, creating a shared experience of warmth and wonder.
Having grown up in a small coastal town 10 minutes north of Wollongong, her colourful paintings pay homage to her time spent gallivanting down by the ocean and in the surrounding bushland.
Her distinctive personal style emanates nostalgia and joy and expresses the vibrant spirit of the Australian vista. Picturesque landscapes, native flora and fauna are all brought to life with contrasting and harmonious colours and bold compositions.
As the artist explains, “Growing up in the 90’s reading Paul Jennings and eating Zooper Doopers at the beach is whebre my mind takes me when i’m creating these works. Wholesome days, filled with laughter and celebration while submerged in this glorious land”.