Steve Seltzer

Steve Seltzer, born in 1955 in Great Falls, Montana, was influenced by his grandfather, Montana artist Olaf C. Seltzer and their close friend Charles Russell. Their influence was apparent even in Steveartist, and moved to California to study with Donald Putman. He has since moved back to Montana, painting primarily the Plains Indians.

Steve says, "Subject matter comes second to the atmosphere, the feeling, the flavor I want to create."

Access to books and shows of the great deceased masters of the art world has proven to be a wonderful learning tool as well. He continues to study, experiment and search for more effective and rewarding ways to present his pictorial ideas.

“I love the surface quality of the impressionist’s oil paintings and I have been trying to incorporate that look and feel with a more stylized approach. My edge control has changed to a “harder” feel with more emphasis on shapes. I am also pushing value contrast for a greater visual impact.”

Steve Seltzer’s connection to the world of art, especially historical western subject matter began at an early age. He grew up in a home filled with original art. These works provided the inspiration to spend many hours at drawing and painting as he was growing up. Seltzer’s grandfather, O.C. Seltzer, and Charles M. Russell were contemporaries who liked to paint together, often addressing the same subjects. Some thought their work was enough alike for each to be mistaken for the other guy.