In 2002 Wyllis earned a degree in illustration from Pasadena's Art Center. He went on to teach for 6 years at the California Art Academy in San Gabriel where his weekend classes were very well attended.

Despite travelling extensively to paint landscapes in other locales, Santa Barbara has been his permanent home since 2007. Wyllis is currently building his portfolio of original artworks while also designing gardens, fountains and exterior details in Santa Barbara.

Wyllis Heaton can often be found at art shows creating and exhibiting his works. He enjoys the Plein Air setting for painting and the challenge of capturing the ephemeral beauty of the rapidly changing landscapes.