Robert Hillestad uses the metaphor of journey to trace the evolution of his illustrious career as a textiles artist and design educator. His autobiographical essay provides insights into the origins of his fascination with textiles during early childhood and then recounts the critical steps in the evolution of his artistry and career through formal academic programs, various positions in business and industry, and a year-long study of fashion design in the haute couture of Paris, then focuses on his long and distinguished career as a design educator at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. In addition to his narrative, the ninety-six-page monograph designed by Dika Eckersley features essays by Jo Ann C. Stabb and Beverly Gordon, scholars in the field of costume and textiles; a poem by Mary Logue; and lavish photography by John Nollendorfs, Roger Bruhn, John Spence, and Richard Hay.

 

Robert Hillestad: A Textiles Journey is published by the Friends of the Robert Hillestad Textiles Gallery, a not-for-profit organization that supports the gallery named in Hillestad’s honor. By capturing the essence of Hillestad’s artistic footprint, the book prompts readers to embark on their own fantastical journey through his kinetic, multilayered, and highly regarded art. Although images of his artwork and references to his life and career appear in numerous publications in both print and electronic media, this is the first comprehensive publication focusing solely on Hillestad’s background and artwork.