• 
  Steffon Moody’s captivating plein air paintings of Vashon filled the galleries at Vashon Center for the Arts (VCA) last October. But painting is just one facet of his expansive creative life. In our conversation, we explore his many artistic pursuits—and the ongoing practice of staying present in both creation and performance.

Steffon began his career in the visual arts at just 16, working as a theatrical set painter at the Muny Opera in St. Louis. He learned the craft from his father, Robert Moody, alongside a crew of 14 painters whose weekly task was to create the scenery for an entire musical—on one of the largest stages in the United States. Paint, quite literally, flew.

Today, Steffon teaches drawing and design at DigiPenInstitute of Technology, a college focused on gaming and animation in Seattle, Washington. His work at DigiPenconnects him with a vibrant community of artists from Disney, Pixar, the gaming industry, and the fine arts world.

In addition to his visual work, Steffon also spent three decades as a performer—first with UMO Ensemble, and later with his own company, Chameleon Performance. His creative journey continues to blend disciplines, with a deep commitment to staying awake and attuned in the moment of making.

He will be teaching plein air painting at VCA this May.  Learn more at VCA.  https://vashoncenterforthearts.org/2020/05/10/art-endures-steffon-moody/

“You are not trying to entertain, you are trying to be present.”  Steffon Moody