Steph Matos never imagined she would become an artist. Growing up she felt drawn to various forms of self expression trying her hand at dance, gymnastics, singing, and poetry. Yet she convinced herself that drawing and painting were skills she did not possess. Her path led her to the bright lights of New York City where she studied theatre. But the lights soon dimmed and New York lost its luster. After 4 years, she returned home to Florida and left the creative world for the academic one. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology and then moved to Orlando to pursue her Master’s degree at UCF. After a major life change; she sought the advice of a friend who asked her, “What brings you happiness?” She didn’t know. It led her on a journey to find the answer. She began observing plants, animals, and flowers through an artist’s lens and questioning what drew her to them. It was from that question and through recognizing the beauty that was all around her that she discovered the artist that was inside her.

When she purchased her first canvas, paint, and brushes less than two years ago, a love affair was born. The transition from “I paint for fun” to “I am an artist” occurred when she was one of several artists chosen to take part in the 2010 Art in Motion art show in Downtown Orlando. In addition to painting, she began pursuing photography, specifically photography that captures emotion through composition, blur, color, and light.

While Steph’s path as an artist has not been circuitous, she is looking forward to unlocking more hidden talents as her journey continues. She is pleased to be included in “PEOPLE” and hopes to be apart of other Blank Space endeavors.

For commission work, questions and inquiries regarding collaborative projects please email the artist at: steph@eatpaintsweat.com