If you haven't had the pleasure of seeing one of Steph Chapman's artworks before, then oh wow are you in for a treat! We are over the moon to introduce Steph as our latest Guest Artist, ahead of our upcoming RO x Steph Chapman collab!
Steph's work is a feast for the eyes, and we just know you're going to love every single piece in this fabulous range. But first, let's get to know a little more about Steph... and of course see some sneak peeks of what's to come ;) #celebratingamazingwomen
RO: Tell us a little bit about yourself?
SC: I’m an abstract artist based in Geelong, Australia. I paint vibrant statement pieces, usually speckled in bright abstract botanicals.
I actually work full-time in communications (writing and editing). I love weaving words in my day job and spending my spare time immersed in colour!
I only discovered painting a few years ago. I was diagnosed with a complicated heart condition in early 2019. It was a bit of a dark era. My psychologist suggested I explore a hobby – a healthy distraction, so I bought some cheap ‘n nasty paint gear and had a go! Very quickly, art pulled me from the grips of depression and anxiety. Painting became my creative saviour and a life-changing obsession. (Side note, two cardiac procedures later, my heart issue is fixed.)
I live an all-round life of crazy colour and creativity. I’m usually dressed in clashing colours head to toe. Most furniture in my house is pink. I’m a not-so-secret fan of the ‘ban the beige’ policy.
I truly believe surrounding yourself with colour that calls to you is good for the soul. I encourage everyone to embrace colour.
RO: Use three words to describe your art.
SC: Out there. Floral. Romantic.
RO: What was the first piece of artwork you connected with? How did it make you feel?
SC: I have a Samantha Thompson mixed media original. It’s ‘music’ for my eyes. It gives me an appreciation for the immense creative talent in this world.
RO: As an artist, have you ever struggled with inspiration and creativity? If so, how did you get that spark back?
SC: I never force my art. If I get the ‘creative itch’, I create. If I don’t feel called to paint, I fill my time with other loves – my boyfriend, my family, singing, spending money on delightfully frivolous things.
RO: Is there a particular impression or feeling that you want to leave people with when they view your pieces?
SC: I wouldn’t say I create art to leave an impression on others. I make art because the process of creating is fun and anxiety-thwarting. If the fruits of my explorations happen to spark joy in another, that’s really just a bonus.
RO: We love talented and amazing women (like yourself) here at RO. What’s the best and worst thing about working for yourself?
SC: I love that my creations have ended up around the globe, in people’s homes, bringing comfort and colourful joy. That’s pretty cool.
I don’t love the paperwork that goes with owning a business.
RO: Tell us something we’d never guess about you?
SC: I live in a one-bedroom apartment. In summer, my studio is a small semi-waterproof back patio. In winter, my studio is my kitchen. Fun times!
Thanks so much for allowing us into your beautifully colourful world, Steph! We are SO thrilled to be featuring your incredibly bright and stunning artwork on some of our most loved RO goodies. We'd love to know, which piece has caught your eye?!
CONNECT WITH STEPH:
Website - stephchapmanart.com.au
Instagram - @stephchapmanart
Facebook - @stephchapmanart