Ian's Journey
Ian Stephens was born in Gippsland, Victoria and spent his youth on a rural property in the picturesque agricultural region of Gippsland. The comparative isolation of Ian's early life allowed him to develop his natural talent without outside influence, resulting in a firmly individual style of painting.
Ian's artistic ability was recognised at age eleven, when he won an award at the Gippsland Art Exhibition. By fifteen he was a student at the Sale Technical College and studied Architectural Drawing and the History of Art and Painting in all mediums.
His love for the environment sparked his strong commitment to preserve the Australian heritage by using his skill to record it.
In 1971, Ian relocated to Melbourne to study Fine Art and Painting Techniques at the Victorian Artists Society. He completed advance art courses and attained a Diploma of Commercial Art. In addition to this experience, Ian broadened his artistic knowledge by travelling Australia and the World.
Ian's first solo exhibition was held at the Young Originals Gallery in South Yarra, Melbourne. The response to this exhibition was phenomenal with clients travelling interstate and waiting hours prior to it's opening. This exhibition sold out completely as did over 30 one man exhibitions that followed throughout Australia.
Ian continued to win art awards including the Royal Overseas League in 1976. His winning painting was sent to London to represent Australia in a Commonwealth exhibition opened by Queen Elizabeth II. The painting received High Commendation by the judges from the Royal Academy of Arts.
In 1992, Ian relocated to Far North Queensland to fulfil a lifelong ambition of living in the tropics. He enjoyed incorporating his new environment into his diverse range of landscapes.
Ian is one of Australia's most established artists and is among the minority of practicing professional artists who derive their income entirely from the proceeds of their artwork.
Ian's artwork has been purchased by Heads of State, American Presidents, Governor Generals, Prime Ministers and movie stars, as well as, oil companies, banks and major financial institutions, and public and private collectors worldwide are among Ian's considerable following.
The outstanding quality of Ian's artworks guarantees a beautiful addition to any home and due to his significant career - A great investment.
Ian's current works are on display at:
Ian Stephens Village Gallery
Shop 3/139 Williams Esplanade - Palm Cove
Queensland 4879
Australia
You can view Ian's work online
www.ianstephensfineart.com
To contact Ian, email: info.ianstephensfineart@gmail.com