As an artist what is the most important message you try to spread through your work?

That depends on the piece or body of work that I’m immersed in at the moment. Lately I've been trying to pay more attention to what I'm using in terms imagery and content. For instance: I try in mind the ritualistic qualities in creating wreaths (either as a type of death/funeral wreath or a more cosmic portal) or floral arrangements that some ways mirror my own rituals in making the work. There’s a dark beauty to a good deal of my work and I hope that comes across in one way or another.

As mediums, you choose collage and sculpture, what about those to mediums compel you to produce more work?

With collage, being image based, the material compels itself…the more imagery I find the more work I make. I’ve recently come back to making sculpture. It’s become a vehicle to push some of my ideas with the collage work further. I’m excited to see how the collage work and sculptures play off of each other in the future.

What are your two favorite galleries in Chicago?

I love Ebersmoore, but I’m a little partial since I’m one of their artists. Roots & Culture: wonderful program and run by a great guy, Eric May, who is starting a food truck! Golden: fantastic space with consistently solid shows.

"Patience is a virtue" -- this statement is probably more literal for you than many of us. What do you do for "fun"?

Gardening. Going to art openings. Hanging out with my two poodles: Lulu and Francis. Hanging out with my two cats: Poncho and Kevin. Hot dog brunch. Goof Off Sunday (at Rainbo). Making cat collages.

Who's an artist you look up to?

Recently, I’ve been enamored with the work of Azuma Makoto.

Find Stephen on the Internet:

- Stephen's Website

- Stephen's Blog

- Stephen's Tumblr