Steve has been carving and painting since 1987. Initially taught by his father Harris Smith, in the Oweekeno and Kwakwaka’wakw style, Steve has since developed his own distinct and innovative style. Steve’s pieces include original paintings, sculptures, masks, limited edition prints, etched glass, totem poles and drums. His cutting edge work has been featured in several major exhibitions throughout North America, and has been purchased by collectors around the world.
In 2005, Steve was featured in the ‘Changing Hands: Art Without Reservation 2’ exhibition that opened at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York. In 2006, Steve created two public works for the City of Vancouver’s ‘Spirit Bears in the City’ project. In 2007, his work was included in the Burke Museum’s ‘In the Spirit of Our Ancestors’ exhibition, in Seattle. In 2008, Steve received two major commissions for works to be placed in the Vancouver International Airport. These monumental installations were completed in June 2009. Also in 2009, Steve was included in the ‘Challenging Traditions’ exhibition at Ontario’s McMichael Gallery, a show that was dedicated to exploring innovative and experimental works from the Northwest Coast. Steve’s work is continually evolving and he is always experimenting with form, colour and symbolism.
Steve resides in Vancouver, BC with his wife and daughter.
Biography sourced from https://www.stevesmithnativeart.com/artist-bio.html