Hello loves, it’s time for some Sunday inspiration – we get to meet talented artist Steven Stanley. I hope you enjoy our chat!
Who are you and what do you do?
I’m Steven Stanley, I’m an Artist and Graphic Designer.
What creative paths are you currently following?
- Graphic Design
- Oil Painting Classes
- Art Journal With Friends
Who or what provides the biggest inspiration for your work?
I’m on a journey to find my artistic style and I’m inspired by exploring new techniques, colour combinations and styles.
You work in a creative field and you paint in your own time, how do these fields intersect?
I have been attending oil painting classes for the last 2 years. Since then I have developed colour theory, composition and visual engagement skills that play a big part in my professional career as a Graphic Designer. I have also gained confidence in finding visual solutions to a design brief and executing the artwork quicker.
How long does a painting take?
It could take 2 hours to 16 hours. It really depends on the subject matter, how detailed it is and what techniques or styles I use.
How did you get started?
I have always been into art and interested in drawing, painting, graphics, photography and even ceramics at one stage. After high school I lost my artistic drive, resulting in no drawings or paintings at all for over eight years. I found my artistic mojo again once I moved from Melbourne to Bendigo in November 2012, where my friend referred me to the art class that I am currently attending. I’m loving every minute of it.
What’s your process?
I think of something I would like to see as a painting while at the same time imagining what colours I could use. Then I work out what size and style of canvas would suit the content and composition. Sometimes at this point I would have a frame colour and style in mind too.
I start an under-painting using one colour to map out the shapes, tones and compositions of the piece. From here, I continue by painting in mid tone areas, then the darkest tone and lightest tone. I do this to make sure the tones are all correct and consistent. Then, I apply the full colour.
What’s your favourite part of the process?
The idea stage is probably my favorite because I’m most inspired at this point. Then it’s when I do then under-painting and start to see the image come to life.
What’s the best part of being a creative?
Graphic design limits your creative ideas because you are guided by brand guidelines and or customers personal wants and needs. Painting on the other hand is my real creative outlet, with endlessly creative possibilities. There’s no limit to the inspiration for your next painting.
And the worst?
Trying to stick with one style, technique or subject matter.
What creative endeavours would you like to undertake in the future?
- Enter my work into local art exhibitions
- Create my own artistic style
- Illustrate a children’s story book
- Continue my art journal circle
Upcoming exhibitions
The Bendigo Art Society is holding an exhibition between 18 – 20 March 2016.
Location: Wes Vine Performance Centre, Eaglehawk Secondary College, Reserve Street Eaglehawk.
More information: Download the flyer
Where can we find you?
On instagram as @modart_design
Pop on over to instagram and explore Stevens work. He offers a beautiful range of colours and subject matter to entice and inspire. Our thanks to Steven for chatting to us about his work.