We were lucky to catch up with Steve Andrews recently and have shared our conversation below.

Steve, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Innovation comes in all shapes, sizes and across all industries, so we’d love to hear about something you’ve done that you feel was particularly innovative.

Utilizing a trampoline (yes, a trampoline) as my inspiration, I created Quasar. Construction of the work was time consuming. To achieve my vision of the trampoline floating (or bouncing, Ha), I used a lightweight board to create an irregularly shaped canvas. Various paints were applied onto this base along with some Brayer work. (Love Takach Brayers – Thank You Dave Takach Sr. & Family). After securing the trampoline onto the board, I began placing rods of various materials such as metals and colored acrylic onto the trampoline. And to make the work ‘jump’ (pun intended) I added sound activated LED backlighting.

As proud as I was of the finished piece, I still felt the art was incomplete for some reason. Perhaps the rods, reminding me of Pick-up Sticks, sparked an idea. At the Performing Art Center where several of my works were exhibited, I invited a dozen or so of my Neuroboxing Friends for a Rod Placement Party. Together, we removed 26 rods of acrylic & metals such as copper, and then replaced the rods into the 32 springs, creating a completely new work, Quasar Version 2.0.

Whenever the acrylic rods snapped during replacement, everyone burst into laughter. Having non-artsy types create Quasar Ver. 2.0 together was a super memorable experience. Using this Party format to finish the work felt thrilling and innovative. And, when I feel a piece is not complete, know that may be just the perfect opportunity for another Party!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Steve’s passion for art came from sharing the creative experience with his mother, Maxine Andrews, who created impressive works, using all forms of media – Oil Paintings, Water Colors, Pencil, Charcoal, Pastels, and Sculptures.
Andrews has also had the opportunity to know and work with many professional artists including Tamarind Master Printer, Conrad Schwable. At “Ocean Works,” their Limited Edition Lithograph shop, artists came from all over the world to collaborate and create original stone lithographs. The artist’s work is based in observation, using bold shapes, vibrant colors, taken to the extreme. Andrews credits Veloy Vigil, Patrick Coffaro, and Bob Alderette for coaching him throughout his career.

“Art gives me such a thrill. When I start a new piece, it is like an adventure, a new frontier; it is also all about the challenge, new ideas & the learning experience.
My art is to be enjoyed and bring continual pleasure. The phrase I like to say, “Bring the Viewer the ‘WOW-Factor!’”
Being able to connect & and bring enjoyment beyond expectations, well, that is the true gift! The ultimate thrill!” -Steve

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Enjoyment! People may be hesitant to buy art for many reasons. Art may be costly. Currently, I have nearly 20 works on display between a local Grocery Store and an Appliance Store. I strive to display works where there is no cost to me, and that means my Buyers benefit too by not having to pay sales commissions.

Perhaps potential Buyers feel the piece has to be mounted once and stay there for eternity. My perspective is that art can move about in a home, office or business. Seeing a piece in a different environ can truly rekindle why the art was loved to begin with. 

For my artwork to bring joy, the pieces need to be out in the community – not just hanging around my studio (pun intended)! To maximize that, I lend art to friends/family for them to ‘host’ the works in their home/office. And if not enjoying it, return it, switch it up. 

What I term “the “OPEN” gallery concept” allows for many more people and opportunities for my art to bring continual enjoyment. 

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Reactions! My goal is to intrigue and capture the Viewer, awaken the ‘WOW-Factor,’ and continue to scream at the senses. Including mine!

Using a mix of instinct, innovation and lots of imagination is my true creative process. Creating art feeds my spirit, giving me strength and purpose. My work is with NO limits; I understand abstracts with bright, bold shapes, concepts & statements may not be for everyone. And that is why reactions are welcomed, and those reactions absolutely reward me, by continually helping drive my passion to learn more, create more.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.artsbysa.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abstractartsbysa

Image Credits

Jeanette Andrews