Originally hailing from Virginia , Walker now serves as the interim chairman of the Valdosta Arts Advisory Council . The council is responsible for helping shape the public art scene in the city and providing guidance to the local government on various projects , including statues and downtown murals . Leadership within the council rotates among its members . Walker took on the role of chairman after his predecessor moved away .
In his own work , Walker concentrates on landscape paintings rather than portraiture . With landscapes , “ I don ’ t have to deal with egos ” of subjects who don ’ t like what angle they ’ re shown at or how their faces are lighted .
His creative process often begins with traveling and taking photographs , which he carefully reviews before creating small studies . These studies serve as the foundation for his larger works , some of which are scaled up to sizes as large as 30 x 40 inches .
Walker ’ s work is deeply influenced by iconic artists like Norman Rockwell , Edward Hopper , and Richard Schmid , whose styles emphasize mood and the subtle interplay of light and shadow .
Walker ’ s still life portraits center around themes of family and friendship , reflecting warmth and personal connection . In contrast , his landscapes shift the focus to the interplay of light and color , with a particular emphasis
Steven Walker with his artwork on display .
24 Valdosta Scene | February 2025