Steven Sotogi

Art has always been in my life. At times it existed merely in the background, but I have always sensed its influence. Whether in the clean lines of an exotic car, the perfect assemblage of architecture or the complexity of an idea coming to life on the canvas, art was ever present. For the last several years I have been fortunate enough to concentrate solely on my craft, resulting in the natural evolution of my abilities. I paint in a contemporary impressionistic style using thick, slow drying oil paint. I am often times amazed at the results of letting a painting flow along its own course without forcing my will upon it. Artists that have inspired me are Prosper de Roover, Rolf Harris, Claude Monet, Charles F. Goldie and Andy Warhol.

Born on the North Shore of Auckland New Zealand, self-taught artist Steven Sotogi\'s interest in art was cultivated from an early age. Steven grew up surrounded by the surreal beauty of Aotearoa (New Zealand). His appreciation for his surroundings allowed him a visual awareness present in his artwork. His rich cultural background provides an esoteric piece of folklore that Steven has the ability to transfer to canvas. He also has found inspiration through travels to many parts of the world, including the Pacific Islands, Australia, the United States and Asia.

Early on, Steven focused mainly on drawing, continuing to nurture his artistic talent. He then began to experiment with different mediums and methods, finally being drawn to his medium of choice in 2004, when he worked in oils for the first time. Steven prefers to use palette knives in his work, which gives him the ability to create a rich flowing texture and either finite or sweeping detail.

Steven\\\'s paintings are featured in many public and private collections throughout New Zealand, and he has become known throughout the country for his unique style, outstanding quality and superb technique. Steven\\\'s reach and recognition are not limited to his home country, having received commissions from clients in the United States, Canada, England, Ireland, Scotland, Japan, Australia, Hong Kong, Dubai, Rarotonga and Austria. Steven continues to hone his technique believing that the evolution of talent is a never-ending process.