Canvas Series
08/04/2023
Farming Family
Acrylic, canvas and old wood, Framed. 26 1/2 x 28 1/2 x 2 1/2 inches deep. Farming Family was originally painted in 2002 and then was deconstructed, cut apart, and joined with reclaimed wood, allowing the original image to be reshaped into a new structure. This transformation gives the work greater balance and intention, with the segmented materials reinforcing the natural geometry that first inspired the piece. What once felt hurried now appears grounded and resolved, past and present woven together into a composition of renewed strength and clarity. The inspiration for this reimagining came from the quiet patterns formed by gleaners cutting hay, their movements across the field creating intersecting lines and rhythms. These subtle geometries drew renewed attention to the composition and guided its evolution, transforming the painting into a layered reflection on labor, structure, and harmony
Forest Concerto
Acrylic, canvas and old wood, Framed. 22 1/2 x 27 x 1 3/4 inches deep. Forest Concerto was originally painted in 2003 in acrylics on canvas, the composition was once expansive, with the central musician easily lost amidst the surrounding activity. In this reimagined version, the work has been distilled and refined, bringing her gently but unmistakably to the forefront. She sits slightly off-centre, poised, as the music she creates rises softly from her instrument. The scene feels intimate, as if the world itself has paused to listen, inviting the viewer to inhabit the quiet space of her performance. The surrounding elements, light, texture, and the subtle suggestion of water, support rather than distract, forming a serene stage for her expression. Every detail, from the curve of her hands to the gentle tilt of her head, is heightened, revealing the harmony between figure and environment. What was once a sprawling tableau has become a concentrated meditation on music, presence, and the delicate poetry that unfolds in fleeting, luminous moments.
Stained Glass Curtain
Acrylic, canvas and old wood, Framed. 22 x 35 x 1 1/2 inches deep. Stained Glass Curtain This painting, originally created in 2003, has been fully transformed in this new presentation. The reimagining marks a near complete departure from the original work, retaining only the placement of the lone violin player as a point of continuity between past and present. The negative space between the wood and canvas becomes an essential structural element, dividing the composition into three subtle Gothic arches. These lines echo the lead tracery of old church windows, both separating and unifying the forms, guiding the eye while reinforcing the architectural presence of the design. The result is both contemporary and reverent: a fusion of painting, sculpture, and stained glass, where the solitary musician feels suspended in light and space, as though her music quietly holds the entire structure together.
Lady with a Book SOLD
Acrylic, canvas and old wood, Framed. 33 3/4 x 42 1/2 x 3 inches deep. This original canvas was painted in 2002. It shows a woman enjoying the peacefulness of her surroundings while also enjoying the contents of a small book. Seeking the solace of quiet contemplation is a common theme among many of Steve's paintings and is the desired outcome.
Divine Love SOLD
Acrylic, canvas and old wood, Framed. 28 x 48 x 3 inches deep. This painting was originally done in 1997. The concept of stained glass was the motivation of this work. Taking the old wood and placing it within the Gothic Arch frame with grid like formation, the negative space becomes the lead of a stained glass window. The Gothic arch shape supports the overall appearance exploring how old wood can become glass and with the provided subject matter, the two bring about a collective result.
In the Garden of Flora
Acrylic, canvas and old wood, Framed. 21 1/2 x 23 1/2 x 1 1/2 inches deep. This painting was originally done in 2001 and was part of an exhibition. It had been in storage until Steve decided that it would be a good candidate for this new series. The composition has been totally repositioned and various parts omitted. This new painting is very atmospheric with lots of drama found in the rich dusk filled tones. Flora was the Mythological Goddess of flowers, her statue stands perched above watching and enjoying the music and celebration within her garden
Young Dreamer
Acrylic, canvas and old wood, Framed. 24 1/2 x 26 x 2 1/2 inches deep. This Painting was completed in 2001. The musician theme is a common element of Steve's paintings. This theme has been a large part of his portfolio over the years so it seemed appropriate for him to revisit this old canvas and repurpose it for this new Canvas Series.
A Warm Summer Day SOLD
Acrylic, canvas and old wood, Framed. 18 x 19 1/2 x 1 1/2 inches deep. This small canvas was originally done in 2002, it explores another common theme of Steve's, the sheep farm. The wood present in this painting is dynamic and full of volume. The wood starts where the water line begins, and provides a multi-layered transition that really displays what these new woodblock paintings are accomplishing. It is a busy transition between canvas and wood, along with different levels of dimension, allowing the viewer to navigate around the small textured painting, and eventually settle on the subject.
Garden Party SOLD
Acrylic, canvas and old wood, Framed. 18 x 19 3/4 x 1 1/2 inches deep. Originally done in 2001 it was part of a series of 12. All but 2 were sold, and they have been in storage for the last 15 years. The Garden Party is a painting that is heavy with atmospheric drama, its a rich painting with long tones and rich value. The evening is drawing to close, but the lone musician is eager to keep the music playing. This painting, when first done, was a lot larger and the composition had many void areas. Now, with the inclusion of old wood and a tighter structure, the painting holds more intimacy and is more complete.
