Darrell Hill

Darrell Hill (1941 - 2013) 

The subjects of Darrell Hill's paintings are as diverse as the Hawaiian paradise in which he lived – beaches, florals, tropics, landscapes and beautiful native people – but the “Darrell Hill touch" is unmistakable in each of his works. Strong contrast, bold use of color, and light with surface texture are instantly recognizable hallmarks. Darrell Hill’s gift for observation and ability to paint with both freshness and emotion earned him a multitude of fans and serious collectors worldwide, and his paintings are now recognized as an important and permanent part of the best of American fine art created during the first two decades of this century.

Born 1941 in Hillsborough, Illinois, Darrell Hill was raised in California where he received formal art instruction at the College of the Sequoias, Fresno State University and Brooks Institute School of Fine Art in Santa Barbara. For 18 years, Darrell Hill served as vice president and creative director for a major publishing company. "From publishing to painting is not such a big leap," Hill said. "After all, everyone knows that a picture is worth a thousand words.”

Darrell Hill is often described as an “Artist’s Artist”.  Darrell Hill’s paintings are colorful and comforting, warm and inviting, and sometimes, courageous. In addition to his beautiful work in oil, Darrell was also adept in other mediums, including watercolor and drawing.  Darrell Hill cited Monet, John Singer Sargent, Joaquin Sorolla, Van Gough, Klimt and Gauguin as major influences. In addition to his success among private and public collectors and the artistic community, Darrell Hill’s work has also been featured prominently in many major publications.

Darrell Hill is greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.  Lahaina Galleries is fortunate, indeed, to be a part of his continued lasting legacy.