Davor Zilic was born in Petrinja, a small town between two rivers in the heart of the Republic of Croatia. His artistic talent was recognized from childhood.

In 1989 he started attending the School of Applayment Art, in the Fine Art Painting section of the capitol city Zagreb. Soon after he was enrolled, the war in Croatia broke out. His calm childhood a thing of the past, Zilic became a refugee. His family and his art helped him to overcome the hardships of war.

Zilic had 51 exhibitions throughout Croatia and Europe where he already made his reputation and had his loyal audience. He painted and gave sacral icons to war-devastated churches in Jasenovac, Vukovar, Gospic and Petrinja. Also during his military service in 1998, he led a construction of St. Nikol Tavelic's Chapel in Pula for which he painted all 14 stations of the Way of the Cross and portraits of three Croation saints.

Zilic's vision of the world is defined, clear and strong. His paintings are surprising because all their motives are known and intimated. At the same time, he has the ability to awaken feelings for nostalgia, pride, great joy, and warmth.