Steph Becker

Bio

Steph Becker is an illustrator, painter, and ceramic artist with an interest in handmade one-of-a-kind items. Her work usually features animals, most often dogs and rabbits. Her work has been shown at the Museum of Art and Design in New York, and her illustration work has recently been commissioned by the MoMA for their monthly “Drawn to MoMA” series. Originally from Massachusetts, she currently lives in Kansas City, MO, where she makes drawings and ceramics to support herself and her dachshund. 

Artist Statement

I am an artist with many odd jobs and interests. I love to ride my bike, go on picnics, get books from the library, draw, and wake up early to have time for a nap.

I grew up in New England and have moved around a bit. Drawing, painting, and creating stories is a way for me to record, remember, and understand my experiences. I often use humor in my work as a way to create a connection. Humor is nonsensical. When we laugh with another person, we are connecting over something that goes beyond rational thought. We let go of control, and we are happy that someone else understands us, and we didn’t have to explain it.

My inspiration comes from the characters and observations of my daily life. My subject matter focuses on nature, animals, beauty, and humor, all for the purpose of depicting emotions and feelings that are hard for me to explain with words.

Although figurative, my work is not concerned with realistic representation or illusion of depth. I utilize a subdued color palette, simplified forms, and minimal detail in my drawing and ceramic work. My narrative paintings and illustrations are inspired by my life, but I don’t think my experiences are necessarily unique. By depicting normal, private moments, I hope my work creates a feeling of recognition and connection in the viewer.