His intention both then and now, is to create a provocative image, a complex and dynamic blend that entices the viewer to look deeper. His current studies expand the use of natural elements to include landscapes during times of growth and decay. Prior use of mirrors are replaced by the reflective surface of water, and patterns of leaves or sedimentary rocks naturally suggest intricate tattoos. Stephen’s research utilizes a number of images which function in the same way that painters use brushes and paint palettes; his tools are a combination of various analog films mixed with digital media.
Stephen Spartana received a BFA in Photography from MICA after 11 years, in and out of undergrad programs, a baseball scholarship, and 3 years working in a steel mill to raise the tuition for art school, graduating in 1983.
The last 35 years have been spent on a commercial photography career. The attention has turned towards his artwork which is where he wants expand his horizons and produce the work he loves.
Awards Dec. 2022 Honorable Mention Tokyo International Foto Awards World Below 0°
Nov. 2022 Gold Medal Budapest Inte
March 2022 Nominated Color Awards for abstract fine art, “Anima”
Dec. 18, 2021 Bronze Award Tokyo International Foto Awards,
Abstract Fine Art “Nature in Layers”
July 5th 2021 Bronze Metal Moscow International Foto Awards , Fine Art Abstract “Night Hat”
Jan.22 Bronze Award 2021 Tokyo International Foto Awards Nature “Aging With Grace”
Dec. 10 Honorable Mention Budapest International Foto Awards series “Nature in Layers”
*Dec. 10 Honorable Mention Budapest International Foto Awards series “Drifting Through Time”
*Aug. 4,2020 Finalist UMBRA Inter. Photography Awards 2019-2020
*June 2 Moscow International Foto Awards Honorable mention abstract art for the series “Time Space”
*March 16, Nomination 13th Annual Color Awards, Abstract Art
*Jan. 21 Honorable Mention, CFA Artist of the Year award for “Hand-Up”
*Dec 27 1st place award Tokyo International Foto Awards for Fine Art for “Life in Layers”
*Dec. 27 Gold Medal Award Tokyo International Foto Awards, Abstract Fine Art “Life in Layers”
* Oct. 31 Honorable Mention Budapest International Awards “Intertwined Series”
* September 19 - Oct. 8: 2nd place “Contrive” National Juried Show d’Art Center, Norfolk, VA.
* June 18 Prix de la Photographie de Paris Honorable mention Abstract art
* May 22 Moscow International Foto Awards Honorable mention abstract art for the series, “Intertwined”
April 30 Finalist in the Siena International Photo Awards 2019
Finalist for Umbra International Photography Awards 2018
Nomination for the 12th Annual Color Awards, Nude category “Water Balance”
May 1, 2018 Bronze Award for Abstract Fine Art Moscow International Foto Awards 2018 for series “Interwoven”
Feb. 25, 2018 Honorable Mention 2017 Tokyo International. Foto
Awards Digital series, “Interwoven” Series
Nov.15, 2017 Honorable Mention 6th China International. Digital Photography Art Exhibition, “Interwoven”
