explore, experiment, and create
Stephen Michael is a professional artist and designer living an working in Tucson. Having studied art at the University of Arizona, he made his professional career as a web developer and then later as social media manager for clients in Tucson and the Phoenix Metropolitan area. He has exhibited regularly since the mid-1980s, and has works in collections across the country, including Tucson, Phoenix, Tempe, Portland, and New York City.
Excerpts of an article at adcook.com:
“[Stephen Michael’s] art is a vibrant mix of realistic and imaginative reflections on life. He draws inspiration from what he sees, dreams, and experiences, transforming them into visually compelling narratives on canvas. Rejecting the idea of being confined to a single subject matter or style, his oeuvre is fluid and eclectic. Each piece is an authentic record, a form of personal therapy, making his art deeply unique and resonant.”
“For [him], art is a profound expression of the human soul, transcending mere craftsmanship to encapsulate the essence of cultural and historical experiences. His ultimate goal remains clear: to capture the myriad facets of human existence for posterity. As he states, “The best art is the art that remains meaningful over the centuries,” a principle that underscores every brushstroke and canvas he creates. Through resilience, perseverance, and a heartfelt dedication to authenticity, [Stephen Michael] has etched his unique mark on the ever-evolving tapestry of contemporary art.”
the heart and soul of the experience
Artist’s Statement – Stephen Michael, 2026
“Painting is a process best described as:
explore, experiment, and create.”
“Through exploration and observation, one finds inspiration. The challenge then is to utilize what is found and what is discovered to create a unique painting that defines itself.”
“Intuitive abstract painting is a process of using multiple diverse materials and using them in imaginative yet meaningful ways. This sets free the creative process to allow perception and imagination to become inspiration. In this way, our experience with the world both physical and non-physical is expressed in the heart and soul of the experience and not just in representation.”