PRISON YARD Print

From Clothes Lines To The Cali Cartel Stephen Mee is a captivating and evocative series of paintings that encapsulates the journey of a artist through the tapestry of time. Born in 1958, Stephen Mee’s passion for art ignited at a tender age, a flame that would burn bright through the twists and turns of his life’s narrative. His artistic odyssey began with an apprenticeship in graphic design, intertwined with the pursuit of signwriting at Oldham College of Art and Design. However, Stephen’s life story is not confined to the realm of art alone. At the tender age of nine in 1967, he embarked on an unexpected path, a life veering toward crime. This path led him to a poignant chapter of his story – a 30-year prison sentence in 1996. Yet, amidst the confines of incarceration, Stephen’s indomitable spirit prevailed, leading him to the corridors of education. Within the walls of OCA Bucks University, he immersed himself in the world of fine arts, ultimately emerging with well-deserved honors. 2012 marked a pivotal juncture in Stephen’s journey. The shackles of imprisonment were cast aside, and a free man emerged, armed with a newfound purpose. His canvas transformed into a testimony of resilience and artistic mastery. A professional artist in the years since his release, Stephen Mee’s creative prowess has found expression in commissioned pieces that have graced the domains of luminaries such as Vivienne Westwood and illustrious figures from the realms of music and fashion. In the tapestry of “PAST PRESENT FUTURE,” Stephen Mee weaves his life’s narrative with brushstrokes that transcend time. Each stroke of paint bears witness to the transformative power of art, narrating a tale of redemption and creative resurgence. The past, with its intricate designs and shades of emotion, merges seamlessly with the vibrant hues of the present, while the future beckons with promises of inspiration. As he stands at the crossroads of 2023, aged 65, Stephen Mee continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration. His story serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path for the next generation of artists to channel their passions and creativity, steering clear of the treacherous allure of a life shadowed by crime. “PAST PRESENT FUTURE” is not just a collection of paintings; it is a symphony of life, resilience, and artistic brilliance that resonates deeply with every observer privileged to witness its profound narrative.