Over twenty years ago, in 1992, I graduated with a BA in Graphic Design from Eastern Illinois University. During those years studying art and design, I found graphic design a very fulfilling creative career opportunity. More of a career opportunity that would garner a full-time job over painting or other arts. However, I found that the painting courses I took interested me equally as much as my design courses - sometime even more.
Graduating with a job waiting for me in St. Louis at Falk Harrison (The Falk Design Group), painting was about to take a back seat to my career. In the mid- to late-nineties, I dabbled in abstract watercolors that didn't amount much. I really dug deep into design, all the time thinking that someday I would dabble again.
In 2004, I joined the board of our local arts center, The Edwardsville Arts Center. Surrounded by amazing artists, was inspirational. But, nine more years of encouraging others to dabble in the arts while working a different career - I finally put my money where my mouth was. Maybe it was a new year's resolution, or maybe the spark finally struck, but I produced my first oil painting since those days at Eastern in January, 2013.
Connor Ice Skating
oil on canvas
30" x 30"
That first painting was an Instagram screen capture of my son ice skating at Steinberg Ice Rink in Forest Park. Two more, quick oils later, I was hooked. And, I'm so glad that I did.
I gave myself a goal of 20 oil paintings this year. I should make it, but after I achieve that, my next milestone is to never stop painting.
I truly hope you enjoy my work. I'm having a wonderful time creating it.
Steve