Don Stephens

Donald Stephens resides in Burlington County NJ since 1987. He has attended Burlington County College obtaining an AAS 90’. Mr. Stephens then furthered his yearning for the arts at Temple University Tyler School of the Arts, where he has achieved his BFA 96’; simultaneously completing a full term in the United States Marine Corps Reserve as a Communicator. Lately, he has displayed his work in various locations in the Delaware Valley area and Northern New Jersey Area. To add, the role of Artist/Instructor/Lecturer has been carefully added to his list of creative skill; teaching in the area art centers of Southern NJ: Markiem Art Center, Perkins Art Center, Burlington County College Community Enrichment, Art Teacher at Garfield Park Academy and several other locations throughout the New Jersey , Philadelphia area. Mr. Stephens’s unique expressive quality enables him to create in several modes of material manipulation from wet to dry but has a deep passion for charcoal drawing. Within his observations Donald has formulated his own visual syntax that has been described as expressive, informative and imaginative simply by maneuvering material and experiences to convey a certain moment in time and space.

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"Portraits to Consider"

by J. Dorene Picker for October Gallery

As an artist I began my formal training centered around graphite and charcoal drawing. I've always had a deep appreciation for this medium and the work of Donald Stephens seems to reflect everything I enjoy about it. The key to creating an expressive drawing lies almost entirely in technique and skill.

Donald's work is not only expressive but well detailed. His portrait work contains emotion and movement. The decision to include more free formed elements in some pieces are part of his unique style. This is truly a series of work anyone can appreciate. If his intent was to "convey a certain moment in time and space," than he has successfully done so in these works of art.

Having spent a great deal of time learning, implementing and admiring similar works myself it is always refreshing to see another artist add their own twist to a classic art form. I would like to see more of Mr. Stephen's works in a series. There are moving themes of pride and thought consistently portrayed here. This artist is well suited for creating some eye opening and memorable themes. I'd also love to see them manifest into multiple piece displays available for collectors. Two pieces titled "introverted" and Extroverted" for example make a great set to be displayed and admired side by side. I look forward to seeing more of his work.