Blue Hawaii (377 Piece Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle)

Steve Simon

Steve Simon is an American artist whose creative journey reflects a remarkable transformation from the worlds of engineering and international business to the deeply personal pursuit of fine art. His background in mechanical engineering and an MBA demonstrates a unique blend of technical skill and strategic thinking, which adds depth to his artistic perspective. Raised outside Chicago by immigrant parents from Luxembourg, Simon developed a strong work ethic and intellectual curiosity from an early age. He earned a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering, followed by an MBA, which led to a successful early career as a robotics engineer and management consultant. By his late twenties, his professional experiences had already taken him across four continents, exposing him to a wide range of cultures, ideas, and perspectives that would later influence his artistic vision.

While living in Paris during a consulting assignment, Simon rented an apartment in the legendary artist district of Montmartre. Immersed in the city’s rich artistic heritage and vibrant creative atmosphere, he experienced a profound personal awakening that changed the direction of his life. Recognizing that art was not simply an interest but a calling, he made the bold decision in 1994, at the age of twenty-nine, to relocate to California and devote himself fully to painting. Beginning with landscapes and seascapes inspired by the beauty and tranquility of the California coast, Simon quickly gained recognition for work that resonated with collectors seeking serenity, balance, and emotional depth. Growing demand for his paintings led him to open his own gallery on scenic Balboa Island, California, where he continued to expand his artistic portfolio and publish seven art books featuring his work. His reputation continues to grow among art enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

Central to Steve Simon’s artistic philosophy is what he describes as the “artful pursuit of peace and harmony.” This guiding principle is reflected throughout his body of work, from his calming natural scenes to his more conceptually driven projects. His recent collection, The Great Peacemakers, represents one of his most meaningful creative endeavors, featuring representational portraits of thirty-four influential figures who helped shape a more compassionate and peaceful world. Through these works, Simon seeks not only to celebrate human achievement and moral courage but also to inspire reflection, empathy, and hope. His art embodies a lifelong commitment to authenticity, beauty, and the enduring possibility of peace, resonating with viewers seeking meaningful artistic expression.