Somerville artist, Karl Stephan is best known for documenting the evolution of Rico Modica Way (also known as the Cambridge Graffiti Wall) in thousands of photographs since 2010. Karl is a practicing studio artist who teaches privately in Cambridge, at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and in various community settings. Presence" is his holiday gift to the people of Davis Square and Somerville.
About the Artist:
Karl Stephan returned to art-making nearly twenty years after receiving my BFA in painting and printmaking at Guilford College. In 2011, he established a studio in Central Square, Cambridge MA and has a MFA in art education from Tufts University and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts. His teaching practice involves lessons in his studio, at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, and in other academic and community settings. Driven by human-based social interaction, his work and practice combines experimental art-making, collaboration, teaching, mentorship, and curation. This holistic approach to creativity is grounded in the philosophy of the importance of individuals engaging in a community with others, constructively and with joy. His versatile media techniques and extensive knowledge of art and cultural history give his students a comprehensive learning experience. For him, community is formed through these positive interactions where cultural practices are intertwined to help individuals make these connections.
Even though he is primarily an “indoor” artist, he has a devote passion for the local street art scene, documenting its ephemeral and ever-evolving process since 2010. In 2016, he curated "Wall to Wall: Art Builds Community" a street and studio art at Nave Gallery in Somerville, MA. He is the consummate collaborator, working frequently with young artists and curators to present visual art as a way enabling artists to build a positive community with others. In 2013, he was named a Community Supported Artist in Cambridge for and recently became an SMFA Medici Artist. He continues to exhibit and sell his work across the U.S. and aboard.
karlstephanart.weebly.com
Instagram @karlstephanstudio
About the Inside-Out Gallery
Initiated in 2009, The Inside-Out Gallery is located in the CVS Window in Davis Square, a unique space that allows the public to view an eclectic array of works from artists and local organizations each month. The mission of the Somerville Arts Council is to cultivate and celebrate the creative expressions of the Somerville community. Through innovative collaborations and quality programming we work to make the arts an integral part of life reflective of our diverse city.