Abstract urban-contemporary artist Steve Javiel’s work is extremely interesting. His work is meant to replicate the aged urban environments of a city, in this case San Francisco.

Using a variety of  mediums, Javiel turns a plain canvas into an abstracted piece of California history. Steve’s work is definitely on its way in becoming high art and Patron of the Arts is very pleased to introduce Steve Javiel as a  Featured Gallery Artist.

You can view the works that we have for sale in our gallery which can be viewed, here: Now is your chance to pick up a piece of Steve’s work why this up and coming artist is still affordable.

In the meantime, you can learn more about this thoughtful artist in the interview below:

Tell us about your subject matter.

My subject matter deals with urban environments. I am drawn to the textures of decaying walls, shipyards, train container and industrial buildings. I photograph places that are intriguing, knowing that these nitrated weathered surfaces have a historical significance within the city that they dwell.

There was a time when these surfaces had a bigger use and function. Practically all of the surface’s that I am drawn are man made. What fascinates me is the natural state of decomposition that occurs over time. With time this decomposition has a special abstract beauty. Rains adds another visual element, natures contribution to the decomposition process.

The texture and the typography are specific elements that I focus on. I also look for how humans have interacted with different surfaces.

I personally relate to a few of my pieces to specific times in my life. Times when the “beat up” surface reflected the way I felt. Some of my pieces could definitely be considered self portraits.

Tell us briefly about your medium,materials and  process.

The mediums I use vary, but I tend to use whatever I can get my hand on. I like to incorporate elements of wood, canvas, acrylics, oils, spray paint, stencils, paper, pumice, joint compound, sand paper and actual pieces from decaying walls.

I start my paintings by adding layers. I begin with a layer of paper, pumice or joint compound. Once that dries I’ll cover the entire panel or canvas with a neutral. I do this with the first few layers, then I add more layers of color once that’s done then I begin to add typography and other visuals… and things change in the process and I just work with the piece. It is a give and take, until I’m satisfied with the aging process and piece.

Tell us your artistic background & influences.

My earliest creative influences is painting with tampera paint in elementary school. That was the first time I picked up paint- it is a very vivid memory for me.

I always had a notebook that I would draw in, for a long time it was just Bart Simpson. Then in High school, I looked for anything creative and art related because it was when I had the most fun.

My senior year in high school I enrolled in a program at the Pasadena Art Center. The first day I walked through I remember seeing the beautiful architecture- glass cabins and paintings. I was so inspired that I just knew at then that was the path that I wanted follow.

After high school I attended LACC community college for 2 years then I transferred to the Academy of Art University. I thought I could paint until I started at the Academy, but was I wrong, the Academy taught that painting was a craft.

I am grateful for having some amazing professors. Two of the most impactive professors on my work were Kevin Moore and Carolyn Meyer. Kevin always made you think about why you were painting what you were painting. To always ask yourself “what’s the meaning behind your work?”

Carolyn Meyer introduced me to abstract painting which opened up a whole new world for me. She always made me step out of my comfort zone, which is something that is essential for a growing artist to do. I experimented a lot with different materials. By experimenting that’s how I came across my style.

To this day I am still experimenting with all types of materials.

Who are some of your current creative influences? Why?

Catherine Mackey influences me by here combination of urban cityscapes and typography- also her use of color and composition.

Chelsea James influences me with her use of color. Cristiana Couceiros inspires me with her use of typography and overlapping, placement of images.

Jessica Hess influences me with her amazing urban cityscapes the use of graffiti is well executed. Looking at her work makes me want to go visit the actual site. Jose Parla inspires me to keep experimenting with different materials. I am always inspired by so many different ones.