Steve Riley
Primary Medium: Photography
Tell us about your upcoming exhibition (if applicable): I will be showing new work at my second Art City Austin visit.
I have added images I have captured during travel of 25 art festivals last year.
What are you working on now?
I have a new series of vintage theatres at night. I started by shooting all three Majestics in Texas and the unique little Globe in Bertram. In addition I have added some lovely images of Oaxaca, Mexico and a rework of some of my vintage nudes from the 80s.
What draws you to do what you do?
The process of black and white and seeing the tones at 72 I didn’t see at 20. There is always something out there no one ever sees but me. I love people in my work and I always learn something new.
How long have you been an artist and/or curator and how has your practice changed over time?
I have been shooting pictures since 1970. It took 50 years for me to think my stuff was any good. Since I was a performing artist in the beginning I had to convince myself I was actually a photographer. I now just see myself as an artist who maybe at 80 I might do some performance art that encompasses photography, singing, dancing, etc. We’ll see!
In your opinion, what does the Austin arts community need as the city continues to grow? More support from the people who look at Austin as only a music town. Painting and photography on sides of buildings promoting art.
ABOUT STEVE RILEY
My creative journey began as a former chorus dancer. My last show before launching a photographic career was “A Chorus Line”on Broadway. I began photography in 1970 taking headshots of fellow actors learning the craft of making pictures. Retiring from the theatre in 1990, my photographic career began in Dallas with clients such as American Airlines, Frito-Lay, American Express, JC Penney, ABC Radio Networks, Disney Cap Cities, and The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.I began showing my personal work at this time. Many years of travel and shooting have produced a fine art documentary style of special places and special people all captured on film in tones of luminous black and white. Twenty-five exhibitions have been mounted and three monographs published of my work. I personally scan negatives and print the files as acrylics and pigment prints on various papers matted and framed with archival materials. I began showing my work at art festivals last March and Art City Austin being my second successful festival. Several low numbered editions are available.
To follow Steve’s work:
@steverilypictures
steverileyeditions.com
