Steve models his new "inflatable shirt", complete with matching bathing cap, just before diving 26 feet into a childs' wading pool...

It’s hard to sleep the night before I begin a large project, one that has lived in my soul long before the day it is brought into existence in the “real” world. The basic (often extravagant) shape and design are fixed in my mind; but it’s the tesserae, the pieces, that determine the personality, emotion and character of the art work, similar to the way various faceted gems determine the character of a jewel-encrusted necklace or ring. The tesserae comes from every corner of the globe, seemingly unrelated pieces that suddenly make beautiful sense when fitted together by my hand. This kind of creative magic fills me with wonder, and makes me feel like an agent of reconciliation.

Almost all of my passions, interests and pleasures are wrapped up into my art and the resulting lifestyle it provides for me. I live to create, to express my thoughts and desires and philosophies. I love to travel, to meet people, to stand out in the crowd. I enjoy finding treasures in thrift stores, flea markets and yard sales. It’s a marvel to see everyday objects and castoff pieces contribute to an entirely new creation, a collage that conveys freespirited meaning and beauty. I’m thrilled to interact with other Creatives, and to teach my pioneering collage technique to mosaic enthusiasts. I have an entrepreneurial spirit, recognizing that being a working artist is akin to being a one-man industry.

My current exhibited body of work explores personal themes using the vehicles of wall-hung mirrors, grandfather clocks and organically-shaped sculptures. Each art work includes “sayings” and messages, spelled out with letter tiles from games, evoking a subtle sense of innocence. My art speaks clearly of optimism and encouragement, a message sorely needed in these anxious times.