"Returning" Painting

Stephen Rybacki’s work brings a deep sensitivity to surface, texture, and natural process to the space. Currently refining his artistic voice, Stephen’s mixed media work explores the delicate beauty of oxidation intermixed with contemporary abstract painting. Layering materials of rust, plaster, fabric, and various paper into tactile compositions that speak to time, imperfection, and presence.

Stephen’s work is built on a dialogue between control and chance. While he creates the conditions for oxidation to take shape, the final outcome is never fully in his hands. His relationship with his work happens up close. He often studies small sections where oxidation has left its mark, or imperfections deserve to be acknowledged. These intimate moments in the studio shape the soul of each piece. The surfaces aren’t polished or manufactured- they’re honest records of interaction between material, time, and intention.
When viewers encounter Stephen Rybacki’s work, their reactions are almost always the same: curiosity, followed by a step closer. His pieces don’t reveal everything at once...they invite exploration to what he hopes is a gateway- a way to remind viewers to slow down and notice the overlooked.
Stephen has exhibited locally in the Los Angeles area for the past 8 years, also including reoccurring art fairs with SaatchiArt’s “The Other Art Fair” as a recognized top artist to collect. His exhibition experience has expanded rapidly beginning in 2025 with group exhibits and sales in New York (Rukh Art Hub/Mriya Gallery) and Barcelona (Uxval Gochez Gallery), as well as group shows in St Louis MO (St Louis Guild), Wilmington NC (Gallery 906), and a recent invitation to ADC Fine Art’s (Cincinnati OH) Art Comes Alive group exhibit and gala upcoming.