Most of my earlier years were spent in travel, eventually family life and contracting.  As a contractor I have done design work from furniture to homes.  Designing was the essential element that made the work worthwhile.  During this time, I developed an ability to render images of reasonable quality.  This sparked a fascination with other artistic possibilities.  An attempt here and there but this avenue remained on the backburner.  In the last year, I have made a strong commitment to teach myself to paint.  In recent months time has been available and I progress.

Inspiration:  I simply don't know where the off switch is.  I have been designing and creating in other fields most of my life.  If I'm not doing - I am thinking and feeling my way to the next idea. 

Steve Niichel:  Oils
"Fire Watcher", oil, $300
"Geese", oil, $90
"Hawk", oil, $200
"Italian Convent", oil, $90
"Puffin", oil, $300
"Quiet Farm", oil, $180
"Raven", oil
"High Desert"
"Proud Mama"