[4] He studied at Falmouth College of Art, then held a research post at Newcastle University.

[4] In 2001, Tulane University awarded Hillier a scholarship, leading to completion of a Master of Fine Arts in New Orleans,[5] as well as teaching role.

[6] His first works Being Human, consisting of five large art pieces, were sold to a single collection, and shipped back to the UK.

[4] This funded his first art studio in London, where he produced Generation, enabling his debut solo exhibition at APT Gallery in 2005.

[7] In 2013, his work was chosen to be a finalist in the national sculpture prize, at Broomhill, and at the Royal Academy summer exhibition.