Steven Roy Hill
About Steven Roy Hill
Steven Roy Hill is a distinguished artist whose passion for capturing the world around him is vividly expressed through his plein air landscape paintings. Born and raised in Boise, Idaho, Hill's artistic journey has taken him from the heartland of America to the scenic San Juan Islands in Washington State, where he has resided since 1974. Operating from his studio on Lopez Island, Hill creates works that resonate with vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, reflecting his deep connection with nature and his surroundings.
A graduate of Boise State University with a BA in Fine Arts Education and an MFA in Painting from Washington State University, Hill's academic background is complemented by his practical experience as an illustrator in the U.S. Army. His preferred medium, pastel, allows him to achieve a remarkable luminosity and color saturation, which he refers to as "painting" due to the layered techniques he employs. This method has positioned Hill as a master of his craft, with his work being celebrated for its archival permanence and vividness.
Hill's artwork has garnered significant acclaim, earning him 114 top awards and honors in juried competitions at regional, national, and international levels since 2003. His accolades include the prestigious Zion National Park Superintendent's Purchase Award and recent recognition in the Plein Air Salon, where his work was selected among the top 40 out of 11,000 entries. A sought-after lecturer and juror, Hill has shared his expertise through over 100 workshops across the U.S. and Europe, inspiring a new generation of artists with his passion for plein air painting.
A signature member and past president of the Northwest Pastel Society, Hill is active in several esteemed art organizations, including the Salmagundi Club in New York City. His works have been featured in leading art publications such as The Artists Magazine and Plein Air Magazine, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in contemporary landscape painting. Continuously exploring new techniques, Hill remains committed to evolving his artistic skills, while seeking enduring venues to showcase his evocative and color-charged landscapes.