Artist Spotlight: Steve Drew

Steve Drew is a full-time professional artist and gallery owner of Gallery 119 in Mineola, TX. After leaving the corporate world 15 years ago, he sought a new direction and, on a whim, picked up a few paint supplies. Though he had always been a doodler, painting was a brand-new pursuit and an immediate passion. Entirely self-taught, Steve quickly discovered a natural gift for the craft.

While working as a contractor, Steve steadily built a presence in the art world, leveraging social media to grow an audience and reputation. Over the years, he has won multiple awards, sold works worldwide, and been featured in local galleries. Commission projects include pieces for dedicated art collectors, champion equestrian competitors, and commercial businesses.

Though Steve is widely recognized for his bird paintings, his favorite works are contemporary interpretations of Western Art, created in both charcoal and oils. In January 2024, Steve relocated to Mineola and opened Gallery 119. Unlike most galleries, it features exclusively his own artwork, including original charcoal and oil paintings, prints, and a range of merchandise.

What inspires your work? 

My love for the western way of life started when I was young, watching the old westerns on television with my dad. I was also hooked on rodeos as a young man and It's still a favorite thing to do on the weekends! As an adult, I continue to live surrounded by cowboy culture. From having my own farm to a very large network of friends all across the country that live and breathe the cowboy and cowgirl way of life, I am constantly inspired by its unique lifestyle, visuals, and romanticism of the time-honored traditions of the west, and also its nostalgic Americana that brings back memories of childhood.