Steven Hileman, recommended to the gallery by one of Maine’s most prominent artists, joined us only five years out of art school, and response to his work was immediate; a Hileman painting was sold in the first transaction of 2004’s spring opening day. The gallery’s regular collectors are delighted to see such an exciting and mature style in an artist just starting out in his career. Originally from Pennsylvania, Steven graduated from art school in Florida, and a few years later moved to Maine, his wife’s home. Here he has found, as have generations of artists before him, that the rugged coast, the woods, the harbors and the towns provide endless challenge and inspiration. His favorite painting is done outdoors, on site, with the goal, always, of capturing the light. This light in his paintings, in turn, caught the eye of editors at “International Artist”, who included two of his paintings in books this year. A promising career lies ahead for this fine young artist.