Scott Hill, Oneida name Wákatatlihúni (“He teaches himself"), is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist whose work reflects a lifelong commitment to artistic excellence, Indigenous culture, and the natural world. Working across painting, muralism, clay, stone sculpture, and two-dimensional media, Hill has spent more than three decades refining his craft while using art as a vehicle for cultural preservation, education, and environmental stewardship.

Hill studied at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico, earning his Associate of Fine Arts degree in 1985. He continued his artistic education through coursework at the University of New Mexico, where he studied printmaking techniques, including etching, stylographs, lithography, woodcuts, and linocuts. The discipline of printmaking challenged him to think beyond traditional formats, introducing him to large-scale compositions and strengthening the skills that would later influence his murals and monumental works. His studies in art history also provided a deeper understanding of Western artistic traditions, enhancing his knowledge of composition, perspective, lighting, shadow, and spatial relationships, principles that continue to shape his work today.

Following his studies, Hill returned home to the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, where his perspective shifted from creating art for competition to creating with purpose. His work became rooted in service to his community, honoring Indigenous knowledge, and preserving the stories, values, and traditions that continue to shape Oneida identity.

Inspired by the colors, patterns, and contrasts found throughout nature, Hill's artistic journey began with pen and ink. The medium's permanence demanded patience, precision, and discipline, qualities that became the foundation of his artistic practice. Over the past 36 years, he has continually expanded his technical abilities, mastering perspective, form, light, and shadow while working in graphite, colored pencil, pastel, oil pastel, ink, painting, and sculpture. His photo-realistic pencil drawings demonstrate both technical mastery and a deep appreciation for observation and detail.

A profound spiritual awakening through traditional Indigenous ceremonies further transformed Hill's work and worldview. Guided by traditional teachings, he embraced a deeper understanding of humanity's responsibility to protect Mother Earth and respect all of creation. These teachings continue to influence his artwork, inspiring pieces that celebrate life's interconnectedness while encouraging environmental awareness, cultural resilience, and respect for future generations.

Among Hill's most significant works is Skywoman (2021), an eight-foot limestone sculpture measuring 4 ft × 4 ft × 8 ft. Inspired by the Haudenosaunee Creation Story, the sculpture represents life, balance, and humanity's enduring relationship with the natural world. Today, Skywoman resides permanently at the Kahnekano·lú Cultural Center in Oneida, where it serves as a lasting symbol of Oneida culture for community members and visitors alike. The creation of Skywoman marked more than an artistic milestone; it was completed during a period of significant health challenges and personal transformation for Hill. Its journey mirrors his own resilience, and its permanent home ensures that the story it carries will continue to inspire and educate future generations.

Today, Hill's artwork has been exhibited throughout the United States and is held in private and public collections worldwide in over 15 countries, including Japan, Germany, Austria, New Zealand, Africa, and South America. In recognition of his contributions to Oneida culture and the arts, he was honored with the 2024 Oneida National Treasures Award, celebrating a lifetime dedicated to creativity, cultural leadership, and artistic achievement.

For Scott Hill, art is more than a profession; it is a lifelong journey of learning, honoring tradition, protecting the natural world, and creating work that inspires connection between people, culture, and creation.