Our latest Artist Profile is with artist Steve Hamilton, winner of the Honourable Mention: Print 2 Metal Prize at the Fifty Squared Art Prize.
A self taught and instinctive artist , Steve started creating art in his early thirties. Since then, his practice has evolved from small surrealist works, to large figurative and abstracts, and now a range of pop / street / urban culture based works. These works are, in his own words, his ‘groove’ and his practice is constantly evolving from what comes to mind.
What medium(s) do you work with, and why have you chosen them?
I predominately use solid timber frames and sold timber panels (sourced from hardware stores and made by myself), found images in print or online, acrylic spray, acrylic paint, sharpies and the occasional watercolour.
Can you elaborate a little more on your making process — how does your artwork get from initial concept to exhibition stage?
My works starts as a thought based concept, is translated onto a digital form, printed on A3 laser prints, pasted to hand made panels, then painted and manipulated by hand. Once cured, the work is lacquered and is ready to exhibit. I am hands on through the entire process, creating the art but also the framing.
Who or what are the biggest influences on your work?
Dali, Lichtenstein, and a range of current street and mural artists. A large influence on my work is nostalgic urban culture.
How do you keep your creative juices flowing? How do you push past creative block?
I tend to create art when I have the urge to create something. I don’t push the creativity as when I have, that’s when things generally don’t turn out as I would like and frustration sets in. At one stage I went 8 years without creating any artwork.
How does where you grew up, or where you live now affect your art?
I grew up in regional Victoria, with a distinct absence of art or artistic influence. Now living in the Macedon Ranges, I have the mental and physical space to create as I need to.
Can you tell us a little more about your creative working environment/studio?
My studio is part of our rustic farm shed, with art materials and works sitting alongside chainsaws, farm tools, motorbikes and all manner of things you need to maintain a small farm.
Who would your dream collaboration be with, and why?
Anyone who shares the same passion and instinct for creating art for others to enjoy.
If you could go on an Artist’s Residency anywhere in the world, where would that be and why?
New York
What’s next for you after your time at Brunswick Street Gallery? What upcoming projects are you working on now?
More creating! I am currently working on evolving my work around urban paste up portraiture with a nostalgic twist.
What does your selection as one of the winners of this Fifty Squared Art Prize mean to you, and to the future of your practice?
I create art as a way to express myself, and the positive feedback by receiving this prize is a real validation for my work and my practice. Receiving this prize has also spurred me on to enter more competitions and undertake more exhibitions of my work, rather than create and keep my works private.
This Prize was awarded by the team at Print 2 Metal.
