Welcome to Behold Portraits
About Steve
Steve Schmeltzer is a professional portrait artist and Chicago native. From an early age, it was obvious that Steve was a natural artist.
The Early Years
His gifts flourished during his high school years, where he won many awards in juried, local and regional art shows. While he was offered a few scholarships, he accepted a scholarship through the Early College Program from The School of The Art Institute of Chicago. Then, because of a strong portfolio of work, Steve attended Arizona State University on a full ride scholarship. He graduated cum laude in 1987 with a BFA in Painting.
Awards & Memberships
Steve’s awards include the Arizona State Award of Excellence in Painting. As well as the Promising Artist Award from The National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts. He has also exhibited at Art’rage Galleries in Chicago.
He is a member of The Portrait Society of America and has many commissioned portraits in homes throughout the Chicagoland area, not to mention paintings in private collections and educational institutions across the country.
Currently, he resides in Channahon, IL with his wife, two daughters, and two cats. Working from his home studio, Steve creates portraits, drawings, logos, architectural renderings, and blueprint drawings for individuals, local businesses, groups, and area construction projects. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram to keep updated on my latest projects.