Steven’s Story
From the serene landscapes of Marquette, Michigan, where I first opened my eyes to the world, to the vibrant and culturally rich city of Tucson, Arizona, my journey has been nothing short of a canvas painted with diverse experiences and colorful memories. Born to parents attending college on the G.I. Bill, my early years were imbued with an appreciation for education and the arts.
My path toward becoming an artist was somewhat predestined. As a seven-year-old, I found myself enamored with the artistry of comic book characters, sketching them with a fervor only a child’s passion can fuel. This initial fascination blossomed into sketching portraits of my family members, eventually paving the way for me to delve into painting by the time I reached 8th grade. From then on, my love for the arts has never waned...
I pursued my passions academically as well, majoring in Art and English at The University of Alabama. My journey didn’t stop at just being a student of art; I took on the mantle of a mentor, teaching High School Art, English, and Science in various states, from Alabama and Michigan to New Mexico and Arizona. For a few summers, I also shared my knowledge and passion for art as a studio art teacher at a liberal arts college.
Tucson has been my home for the past 17 years, where I live with my supportive wife, Nancy. Our shared love for art has taken us on numerous adventures, attending Gallery Shows across states from Florida and Alabama to New Mexico and California. These travels have not just been explorations but a source of inspiration for my work.
Over the years, my artistic journey has taken many forms. From ceramics, photography, and jewelry to writing novels—currently working on my fourth—I’ve allowed my creativity to flow seamlessly through various mediums. My latest project involves transforming a catalog of sketches, inspired by years of traveling, into paintings.
Versatility has always been my forte when it comes to choosing a medium to work with. Whether it’s the stroke of a brush on a canvas or the crafting of words on a page, the joy lies in the creative process itself.
When I’m not immersed in my art, Nancy and I continue our explorations, delving into the beauty of life and celebrating each moment. It’s this same joy and celebration that I strive to capture in my art, a reflection of a life fully lived and cherished.
The Tucson Gallery Asked Each Artist The Same Questions To Get To Know Them Better
Where did you grow up?
I was born in Marquette, Michigan. My parents were going to college in Marquette on the G.I. Bill..
Tell us about your family
I’ve lived in Tucson for 17 years with my wife Nancy. We’ve travelled to Gallery Shows in Florida, Alabama, New Mexico, Michigan, California and Arizona. My wife Nancy is an Interior Designer. We have two children, Sara and Ryan and a son-in-law Brian. Two grandchildren Maren and Eli.
When did you know that you would be an artist?
I started drawing comic book characters when I was seven. Then doings sketches of family members. Started painting in the 8th grade and never stopped. I attended The University of Alabama as an Art/English major. I taught High School Art/English/Science in Alabama, Michigan, New Mexico, and Arizona. For a few years I taught studio art at liberal arts college during the summer. I’ve always been a practicing artist and 15 years ago I started writing novels. I’m working on my fourth novel now. I’ve done work in ceramics, photography, and jewelry over the years. Lately I’ve working on a catalog of sketches that I’m transferring to paintings from years of traveling
What is your favorite media to work with?
I have been versatile with media and enjoy the creative process!
What do you do when you’re not doing the voodoo that you do?
We travel, explore and celebrate life.