Historic Milwaukee featuring James Steeno Gallery
As Historic Milwaukee continues to celebrate a decade of sharing Milwaukee through our gift shop, we are featuring one of our longest collaborators, James Steeno, Milwaukee Artist and Owner of James Steeno Gallery.
Artist Bio
A native of Wisconsin, James Steeno is an award-winning professional watercolor artist based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Born and raised in Green Bay, he began art classes at a young age. He holds a Baccalaureate of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in graphic design and illustration from the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh. James participates in a variety of art shows, fairs, street events and painting competitions around the state of Wisconsin each year. Currently he works full time as a professional watercolor artist and creative entrepreneur out of his home-studio in Milwaukee's Washington Heights neighborhood where he resides with his wife Heidi and their daughter Simone.
Artist Statement
I’ve always had an above-average interest in sketching, painting, design, lines, color, images and art. The metaphysical answer: this is a way to connect to the infinite mystery of the human experience. I love the open-door universe of art, a realm as old as language, yet current and ever changing. We all have unique and special gifts. The difficulty is recognizing exactly what they are, cultivating them, and then bringing them to the attention of the world.
Historic Milwaukee is a local gem and a wonderful organization. I’m so honored to be among the pantheon of historians, artists and makers that celebrate all things Milwaukee. The past 10 years have been legendary and I look forward to where ever our shared history takes us next. Thank you so much for featuring my Milwaukee-themed artwork in your shop!
– James Steeno, Milwaukee Artist and Owner of James Steeno Gallery
Art Process
I usually begin with a preliminary sketch on watercolor paper, using either a water-poof pen and ink or a graphite pencil. Then, I build up the line work with transparent watercolors. Most of my work is done in my studio, but when the Wisconsin weather cooperates, I enjoy painting directly from nature.
From his graphic neighborhood prints to his watercolors, his unique style is recognized by many Milwaukeeans and appreciated by visitors to Milwaukee and beyond.
You can follow James Steeno on Facebook @jamessteenogallery and Instagram @james_steeno_gallery
