Meet Steven Rodriguez | Southwest Art Painter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Steven Rodriguez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Steven, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Growing up, art was a constant presence in my life, woven into the very fabric of my family. My father, a self-taught artist, was my first mentor, guiding me into the world of creativity. Under his influence, I developed my skills organically, driven by a natural talent and an inherited passion for art. This early immersion in the arts led me to participate in various competitions and exhibitions, where I won numerous awards, cementing my reputation as a talented artist from a young age.

My fascination with the Southwest began in my childhood, during cherished moments spent with my grandfather. Together, we would watch classic TV shows like “The Lone Ranger,” which captivated my imagination with its tales of the Wild West. The character of Tonto, in particular, left a lasting impression on me, symbolizing the richness and complexity of the region’s indigenous cultures. These early experiences planted the seeds of my deep love for the Southwest, a love that would later bloom into my artistic calling. During my early career I had several art mentors that molded me like Larry Daste, Donna Howell-Sickles, and Mark Parr.

After high school, I decided to formalize my artistic education at The Art Institute of Dallas. There, I honed my skills in drawing and computer animation, gaining a technical foundation that would support my future endeavors. Despite the formal training, I remained largely self-taught, continually exploring and experimenting with different styles and techniques.

My artistic trajectory took a significant turn during a visit to a Southwest Art exhibit in downtown Fort Worth. This event was transformative, as it was here that I first encountered the works of Amado Peña, a renowned Southwest artist known for his vibrant depictions of indigenous culture. Peña’s work resonated with me on a profound level, awakening a deeper connection to the Southwest and its artistic possibilities.

This encounter led to a pivotal moment in my career when Amado Peña himself invited me to his studio in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This invitation marked the beginning of a transformative journey. In Santa Fe, I immersed myself in the world of Southwest artistry, absorbing the rich cultural and artistic traditions of the region. The time spent in Peña’s studio was not just about learning new techniques but about understanding the soul of the Southwest, its people, and its landscapes.

My journey didn’t stop there. Visits to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the John W. Nieto Art Studio further deepened my appreciation and understanding of the Southwest genre. Georgia O’Keeffe’s work, with its bold use of color and form, and John Nieto’s vibrant, contemporary interpretations of Native American themes, both played crucial roles in shaping my artistic vision. These experiences solidified my commitment to Southwest art, guiding me to focus my creative energy on capturing the essence of this unique region.

Inspired by the heritage and landscapes that surround me, I found my true calling as a Southwest art painter. Through my work, I seek to pay homage to the cultural richness and natural beauty of the Southwest. Each painting I create is a tribute to the land, its history, and the people who inhabit it. My art not only reflects the vibrant colors and dramatic landscapes of the Southwest but also tells the stories of the region’s indigenous cultures, echoing the themes that first inspired me as a child.

In my journey as a Southwest artist, I’ve blended my self-taught roots with the formal education and transformative experiences I’ve gathered along the way. My work is a celebration of the Southwest, capturing its spirit and sharing it with the world, just as I’ve always felt compelled to do. Through my art, I continue to explore and express the deep connection I feel to this region, ensuring that its beauty and cultural richness are honored and remembered for generations to come.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me apart as a Southwest artist is the unique blend of my self-taught roots and the profound influences I’ve absorbed from iconic artists and experiences in the region. I’m deeply committed to capturing the spirit of the Southwest, not just in its landscapes, but in its cultural richness, history, and the stories of the people who have lived there for generations.

I’m most proud of how my art has become a tribute to the Southwest, a place that has always felt like home to me, even when I wasn’t physically there. My work isn’t just about painting scenes; it’s about conveying the emotions, stories, and connections that make the Southwest such a vibrant and soulful place. The joy I feel when someone connects with my art, when they see the Southwest through my eyes, is something I cherish deeply.

Getting to where I am today professionally wasn’t easy. It was a journey marked by challenges, from finding my unique voice as an artist to navigating the ups and downs of the art world. The path wasn’t always clear, and there were times of doubt and uncertainty. But I overcame these challenges by staying true to my passion, constantly learning, and allowing my love for the Southwest to guide me. The support of mentors like my father and artists like Amado Peña also played a crucial role in helping me push through the tough times.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned along the way is the value of authenticity. In art, as in life, staying true to oneself and one’s vision is crucial. It’s easy to get lost in trends or try to fit into a mold, but real success and fulfillment come from creating something that is deeply personal and genuine.

I want the world to know that my art is more than just paint on canvas; it’s a labor of love, a celebration of a region that has shaped who I am. My story is one of persistence, passion, and a deep connection to the Southwest. Through my art, I aim to share that connection with others, to evoke the same sense of wonder and reverence that I feel for this incredible part of the world. My brand is about honoring the beauty, culture, and stories of the Southwest, and I hope to continue doing so for many years to come.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a week to show my best friend around the Lewisville, Texas area, I’d create a blend of local charm, outdoor adventures, and some excellent food and drink spots to give them a true taste of the area. Here’s an itinerary that balances relaxation, exploration, and good times:

### **Day 1: Arrival & Downtown Lewisville**
– **Morning:** Start the trip with a leisurely breakfast at *Starwood Cafe* in Lewisville. They’ve got great pancakes and a cozy atmosphere.
– **Mid-Morning:** Stroll around *Old Town Lewisville*. It’s a charming area with historic buildings, art galleries, and unique shops. We’d visit the *Lewisville Grand Theater*, where local art is often showcased.
– **Lunch:** Grab lunch at *J2 Steakhouse*, a popular spot for a Texas-style meal housed in a beautifully restored historic building.
– **Afternoon:** Explore *Wayne Ferguson Plaza*. It’s a cool place to hang out, with fountains, green spaces, and often live music or events.
– **Evening:** Dinner at *Tierney’s Café and Tavern* for some comfort food. Then, we’d finish the night with drinks at *Old Town Wine House*, a laid-back spot with a great selection of wines.

### **Day 2: Lake Lewisville**
– **Morning:** Breakfast at *Seven Mile Cafe* in Highland Village, known for their coffee and brunch.
– **Mid-Morning:** Head to *Lake Lewisville* for some outdoor fun. We could rent a boat or kayaks at *Eagle Point Marina* and spend the day on the water.
– **Lunch:** Pack a picnic or grab a bite at *Sneaky Pete’s* on the lake, which has a casual vibe and lake views.
– **Afternoon:** Continue relaxing at the lake, maybe swimming or trying out some paddleboarding.
– **Evening:** Dinner at *The Reef* for some fresh seafood. Finish with sunset drinks on their deck overlooking the lake.

### **Day 3: Local Adventure & Shopping**
– **Morning:** Coffee and breakfast at *Black Walnut Café* in Flower Mound.
– **Mid-Morning:** Visit *LLELA Nature Preserve* for a morning hike. It’s a beautiful spot with trails, bird-watching, and plenty of nature.
– **Lunch:** Head to *Flower Mound’s The Shops at Highland Village* for a mix of shopping and dining. Lunch at *Mio Nonno* for some Italian.
– **Afternoon:** Continue shopping or catch a movie at *AMC Highland Village*.
– **Evening:** Dinner at *Shoal Creek Tavern* in Highland Village for an upscale, but relaxed vibe. Finish the night with craft cocktails at *Rustico Wood Fired Grill and Wine Bar*.

### **Day 4: Exploring Surrounding Areas**
– **Morning:** Road trip to *Grapevine* for breakfast at *Main Street Bistro & Bakery*.
– **Mid-Morning:** Explore *Historic Downtown Grapevine*. Visit the *Grapevine Vintage Railroad* or check out some local wineries.
– **Lunch:** Eat at *Tolbert’s Restaurant & Chili Parlor*, a local favorite.
– **Afternoon:** Stop by *Legoland Discovery Center* or *Sea Life Aquarium* at Grapevine Mills Mall if they’re into that kind of thing.
– **Evening:** Dinner at *Bob’s Steak & Chop House*, a Dallas classic, then drinks at *The Gaylord Texan Resort*, where you can enjoy a cocktail in their impressive atrium.

### **Day 5: Day Trip to Dallas**
– **Morning:** Head to *Dallas* for the day. Start with breakfast at *Bread Winners Café & Bakery* in Uptown.
– **Mid-Morning:** Explore *The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden*. The gardens are stunning and worth the visit.
– **Lunch:** Lunch at *Pecan Lodge* in Deep Ellum for some of the best BBQ in Texas.
– **Afternoon:** Spend time at *The Sixth Floor Museum* at Dealey Plaza or explore the *Dallas Museum of Art*.
– **Evening:** Dinner at *Katy Trail Ice House* for a laid-back meal, followed by a walk along the *Katy Trail*.
– **Night:** Drinks at *The Rustic* in Uptown for live music and a great atmosphere.

### **Day 6: Local Breweries & Relaxation**
– **Morning:** Brunch at *Bendt Distilling Co.* in Lewisville, a unique spot offering tours and tastings of their local spirits.
– **Mid-Morning:** Brewery hopping in the area. Start with *Cobra Brewing Company* in Lewisville, then head to *Tupps Brewery* in McKinney.
– **Lunch:** Casual lunch at *Taps & Caps* with a variety of craft beer options.
– **Afternoon:** Relax back at the hotel or Airbnb, maybe take a dip in the pool.
– **Evening:** Dinner at *Verf’s Grill & Tavern* in Flower Mound, a favorite for its relaxed atmosphere and good food. End the night with a bonfire at the lake or a chill evening at *The Brass Tap*.

### **Day 7: Departure**
– **Morning:** A final breakfast at *The Perc Coffeehouse* in Lewisville, a perfect spot to reminisce about the week over a good cup of coffee.
– **Mid-Morning:** Depending on the flight time, a last stroll around *Central Park in Lewisville* or a visit to *Heritage Park*.
– **Lunch:** A quick bite at *Twisted Root Burger Co.* in Carrollton before heading to the airport.

This itinerary blends relaxation, local culture, and a bit of adventure, making for an unforgettable week in the Lewisville area!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The journey of becoming a Southwest artist is one that has been influenced by many, and I’m grateful for the support, mentorship, and inspiration I’ve received along the way.

First and foremost, I want to dedicate this shoutout to my father, whose passion for art laid the foundation for my own creative journey. His dedication to his craft inspired me to pursue my path with the same level of commitment and love.

My grandfather also deserves recognition for introducing me to the magic of the Southwest through the lens of old TV shows. Those moments sparked a fascination that would later become a central theme in my work.

A special thank you goes to Amado Peña, whose invitation to his studio in Santa Fe was a pivotal moment in my artistic development. His mentorship and the insights I gained during that visit profoundly influenced my approach to Southwest art.

Lastly, I’d like to acknowledge the incredible impact of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and John W. Nieto Art Studio. The experiences there deepened my understanding of the Southwest’s artistic heritage and continue to inspire my work today.

These individuals and experiences have all played a vital role in shaping my journey, and I am eternally grateful for their influence on my life and art.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steven_rodriguez_swart