Steven Lester Works

Since childhood I was drawn to illustration because it is narrative, and narrative art tells a story. It uses the power of the visual image to ignite imaginations, evoke emotions and capture universal cultural truths and aspirations.

When Modern Art came into vogue, painting and sculpture with a narrative quality fell swiftly out of favor. In fact, narrative art was disparaged as tired, outdated and passé. Art with familiar narrative themes was branded as mediocre and unimaginative (although narrative art's popularity with the general public never wavered).

Modern society assaults us with digital imagery, often overwhelming and marginalizing fine art. And much of contemporary art today is overly cerebral and conceptual such that it alienates and polarizes all but an elite few.

Thankfully, a changing cultural climate is bringing renewed appreciation for storytelling, paving the way for narrative art's resurgence. Today, I am a thriving artist who creates narrative paintings that celebrate the enjoyment of life, excite the heart and animate the imagination.