Steven Smith

Steven Smith is a leading voice in contemporary figurative realism, known for his masterful blend of classical technique and striking photo-realistic precision. Based in the UK, his work captures the human form with emotional intensity and visual depth, bridging centuries of artistic tradition with a distinctly modern sensibility.

Born in Preston, Lancashire in 1974, Steven studied Fine Art at Middlesbrough University before establishing himself as a successful scenic painter and muralist, completing high-profile commissions across the UK and Europe. In 2011, a pivotal shift occurred when he began working with live models in a studio setting—sparking a focused evolution into the figurative oil paintings that now define his practice.

Drawing on his passion for portraiture and landscape, Steven’s style reflects a deep admiration for both the Old Masters and modern photorealists. His influences span from Botticelli, Caravaggio and Delacroix to American icons like Chuck Close, Ralph Goings and Richard Estes. This fusion results in a unique approach that is both timeless and contemporary—technical yet expressive.

Steven’s work has featured in major UK institutions including The National Army Museum and The Natural History Museum, as well as on film and television sets, and within luxury venues such as the DeVere and Marriott hotels, and the exclusive Funky Buddha club in Mayfair. He has exhibited widely, earning critical acclaim and a growing base of collectors. High-profile commissions include portraits of boxer Amir Khan and footballer Kevin Davies.

With each new piece, Steven continues to redefine modern realism—infusing his classical foundations with the sharp, immersive detail of the photographic age.