The seasonal landscapes of Minnesota have been my inspiration for the past 40 years. From the rugged “northshore” of Lake Superior to the rolling fields, trout streams, and bluff lands of southeast Minnesota, there are limitless experiences that motivate me to create images with transparent watercolor. I describe my work as a traditional realist style through interpretation of color, shape, light and shadow. My work begins with pencil sketches and/or value study to establish a range of light, dark, and mid-tone elements. A limited pallet of warm and cool colors is chosen. A planned, rather than spontaneous, composition is developed using preservation of white areas, initial unifying washes, color applications, glazes, and finishing details are applied to complete each painting.
Stephen is a self-taught artist and an award winning signature member of the Minnesota Watercolor Society. His work is displayed at the Southeast Minnesota Visual Artist Gallery in Rochester and the Lake Superior Trading Post in Grand Marais, MN. Stephen worked for Cook County, MN and Olmsted County Public Health Services until retiring in 2009, and currently paints in his home studio in Rochester, MN.
Contact Steve at: lslackore@yahoo.com
