Born in Holland, Hildegarde has been drawing and painting from a very early age. Moved to Durban, South Africa as a teenager and attended art college while residing there. Came to live in England and worked for children's book publishers as an illustrator and designer. Also worked in advertising agencies. Is now a freelance artist working from her loft conversion studio, which has inspirational views across the Swale. Has exhibited in London and at the Horsebridge in Whitstable, Kent.