STEPHEN
SHORTRIDGE
A R T I S T | A C T O R | A U T H O R
BY DEAN CAMERON
paintings proudly displayed in my home . I typed out a series of “ get to know the artist ” questions for Stephen to answer for our readers , as we do in many such articles ( we will share those with you shortly ). However , during the course of conversation with Stephen , he shared with me that he has written a book called A Finger-Painted Life , which may be better at answering some of my questions . I agreed to read Stephen ’ s new book as a means to get some of those questions answered . Instead , I found a book that has offered surprising insight into this man , others and even ourselves as I read these pages . My “ get to know the artist ” is now a blended interview and book review , as anything else would be an injustice .
A Finger-Painted Life is written as a series of stories from the Stephen of today , with his life experiences and knowledge , to the young Stephen as he strives to find himself as an artist . Which one of us has not said “ I wish I was young again and know what I know today ”?
I first met Stephen Shortridge personally several years ago , when he agreed to be interviewed for a video I was producing to support the arts in Spokane Valley . To meet and talk to this man , you would quickly learn he prefers to deflect a compliment back to the giver rather than to wear it like a badge , as many do . You would never guess his successful Hollywood background as a TV star in numerous roles - most in that limelight tend to bask in it . Instead , you would quickly become comfortable talking with Stephen , the artist and humble human being , as if you had been friends for many years .
I was excited when Stephen said he would agree to be interviewed for Art Chowder Magazine . I love his impressionist style and have one of his
However , the musings and teachings of an experienced artist , speaking to a beginning artist struggling to make sense of it all , transmutes to life circumstances we can all relate to . I found myself connecting to this book in many personal ways and while I consider myself to be creative , I do not have an artist hand .
Stephen is able to blend his skill , his experiences , and his faith , weaving all into a tapestry that will have you pondering “ how on earth was he able to do that ”? To me , that is what I love so much about the arts , to ask that question and to seek our own answers . I strongly suggest reading Stephen ’ s book . It is a very insightful gem . As we progress into the below interview questions , I will be adding some quotes from Stephen ’ s book , A Finger-Painted Life .
8 ART CHOWDER MAGAZINE