Steven P. Smith

Biography

Steven Phillip Smith was born in Preston, Lancashire, in 1974 and has been a full-time artist since 1996, after studying Fine Art at Wigan & Leigh College and Middlesbrough University.

Working in oils from direct observation, he captures everyday objects and places, travelling frequently for inspiration. His work has been shown in leading UK exhibitions, including the RA Summer Exhibition, Royal Institute of Oil Painters (ROI), Royal Society of Marine Artists (RSMA), The ING Discerning Eye and The New Light Prize Exhibition.

In 2025, Steven was made a Member of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters (ROI).

He is a full member of Manchester Academy of Fine Arts (MAFA), where he served on the Council (2019–2024) and was appointed AGBI Steward in 2025. He was elected Vice-President in 2026.

His solo exhibition, ‘Brushstrokes to Brands’, was held at the Museum of Brands, Notting Hill (2023–2024).

Recent travels to Europe, the USA and Canada are part of preparations for a major upcoming solo exhibition.

Statement

I work in oils, capturing the everyday world through direct observation, dividing my time between outdoor plein air painting and studio still life.

My subjects, whether objects I’ve collected or familiar places we may one day view with nostalgia, are chosen for the personal emotions and memories they evoke.

I hope that my paintings offer future generations a glimpse into the past, showcasing the colours, textures and details of everyday life as vividly as I perceive them today.