Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Steve Barton. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Steve, thanks for joining us today. Let’s talk about innovation. What’s the most innovative thing you’ve done in your career?

In my career as an artist, I’ve encountered numerous instances where innovation was not only necessary but also instrumental in driving success. One such example revolves around the creation of my signature Wavy Frame and Canvas design.

When faced with the challenge of limited canvas material and the need to stretch my budget for an upcoming art show, I inadvertently stumbled upon a unique method of stretching canvas that resulted in a bowed effect. Instead of viewing this as a mistake, I saw it as an opportunity for innovation.

Despite initial skepticism and mixed reactions from gallery personnel, I decided to embrace the unconventional aesthetic and present the wavy canvas and frame to potential buyers. To my surprise, within just 45 minutes of being displayed, a collector from Texas expressed immediate interest and purchased the piece.

This success not only validated the viability of the concept but also inspired me to further develop and refine the wavy frame and canvas design. Through experimentation and collaboration with local artisans, I scaled up production to meet increasing demand, eventually partnering with a local company for mass production.

What started as a serendipitous accident evolved into a hallmark of my artistic style, demonstrating that innovation can emerge from unexpected circumstances and ultimately lead to both creative and commercial success.

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.

I’m Steve Barton, an artist based in Southern California, known for my innovative and captivating Wavy Frame and Canvas design. My journey into the art world began in rural New Hampshire, where I discovered my passion for painting at a young age. Despite struggling with traditional academics due to dyslexia, I found solace and expression through art, particularly oil painting, under the guidance of my mother, Betty, who was herself an oil painter.

My dedication to art only grew stronger over the years, leading me to explore opportunities beyond my hometown. Embracing a vagabond lifestyle, I traveled and took on various odd jobs to support my painting. Eventually, I found myself settling in Southern California, where the vibrant art scene and stimulating city life fueled my creativity.

As an artist, I specialize in creating unique and visually captivating pieces using my signature Wavy Frame and Canvas design. This innovative approach was born out of necessity and experimentation, as I sought to make the most of limited resources and budget constraints. What began as an accidental discovery during the process of stretching canvas evolved into a hallmark of my artistic style.

My products/services/creative works primarily consist of original paintings and artwork featuring the Wavy Frame and Canvas design. Each piece is meticulously crafted to evoke movement, depth, and a sense of fluidity, creating an immersive visual experience for viewers. Through my artwork, I aim to evoke emotion, spark imagination, and inspire contemplation.

One of the main problems I solve for my clients is the desire for unique and distinctive artwork that adds character and personality to their spaces. My Wavy Frame and Canvas pieces offer a fresh and innovative alternative to traditional flat canvas or framed artwork, making a bold statement in any environment.

What sets me apart from others in the industry is not only my distinctive artistic style but also my unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality. I take great pride in the meticulous attention to detail that goes into every piece I create, ensuring that each artwork is not only visually striking but also built to last.

I am most proud of the journey I’ve taken as an artist, from my humble beginnings in rural New Hampshire to becoming a recognized painter in Southern California. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks along the way, I’ve never wavered in my pursuit of my passion for art. Through dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to innovate, I’ve been able to turn my dreams into reality.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that my artwork is more than just decorative pieces—it’s a reflection of my journey, my passion, and my commitment to creativity. Whether you’re a collector looking for a statement piece for your home or a curator seeking unique artwork for an exhibition, I invite you to experience the beauty and depth of my Wavy Frame and Canvas designs.

We’d really appreciate if you could talk to us about how you figured out the manufacturing process.

I initially began creating the wavy frames and canvases in my garage using a Black & Decker jigsaw. With the help of a neighbor who was a carpenter and had additional tools like nailing guns and screw guns, I was able to create the first one. With this prototype in hand, I brought it to a gallery where it garnered significant interest.

Realizing the potential of the concept, I sought out other friends with woodworking skills, eventually enlisting the help of local firefighters. Three or four firefighters joined forces to assist me in building the frames. What started as a side project for them soon became a more involved endeavor.

During one of my shows, a gentleman approached me and offered insights on how to improve the manufacturing process. It turned out he was a local manufacturer. After several meetings, we decided to collaborate on manufacturing the wavy frames together.

As demand grew, I transitioned to my own manufacturing setup. Over the past decade, we’ve been producing everything in-house, creating our own jigs and refining the process to ensure quality and efficiency.

Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?

I met my cofounder/wife, who is the more significant aspect of this story, on the very first day I arrived in Carlsbad, California. At the time, I was essentially homeless, with all my belongings packed into my jeep. When I discovered that she was a real estate agent, I saw an opportunity to utilize my skills in sketches and drawings to assist clients in buying or selling homes.

She generously helped me find roommates and a home near the beach, providing a nurturing environment that fostered my creativity. Together, we explored galleries to showcase my portfolio. Over time, our friendship blossomed, and she recognized the potential in my art, actively promoting it to galleries. As we navigated the art business together, our relationship deepened, and we eventually became engaged to be married.

During one of her real estate transactions, she reinvested some of the proceeds into our art business, marking a significant milestone for us. At that time, we were producing our signature wavy frames and staining them in the living room of the house she had purchased and needed to be remodeled—a place we still call home today, filled with love and joy.

We embarked on this journey together, building our business as partners, and we’ve now been together for over 30 years. Reflecting on the past three decades, I wouldn’t change a single aspect of our partnership. While balancing a wife and business partner can be challenging, having someone who has your back both personally and professionally has been invaluable. In retrospect, I am grateful for every moment we’ve shared, and I wouldn’t change a thing.

Contact Info:

• Website: Bartonstudios.com
• Instagram: @Stevebartonofficial
• Facebook: Steve Barton
• Youtube: @SteveBarton

Image Credits
Village Gallery