Stephen Yarbrough is an emerging artist interested in process-based artwork, where the process of making is as important as the end product.  His earlier body of work was based in expressionistic painting and drawing of everyday objects, such as cheesegraters, hex nuts, keys and bunnies. His current body of work is less objective and has been informed by the creative, process-driven impulses he witnesses in his two young sons.  In his current work, the materials and process themselves have become symbolic. Stephen’s work is like a ride of pure creativity.

Stephen was very active showing work throughout 2016, 2017, and 2018, and took a break from shows in 2019 to be an active parent in raising his two young sons.  Then, of course, 2020 was a pandemic year, and in 2021, he is ready to get back into showing more of his work.

In October 2016, his painting called “Key” received some mention on a local news station during coverage of the exhibition “Secret Doors.”  The “Key” was mentioned for the unique shape and construction of the canvas stretcher.

In May 2017, Stephen hosted a major exhibition along with 13 other artists in a pop-up show called “This to That,” held at Central Christian Church in Indianapolis.  His particular work featured an installation called “Stream of Unconsciousness,” which consisted of his paintings and drawings suspended from sculptural wire and paper mache forms.

In November 2017, his piece, “Once a Cheesegrater” won an Honorable Mention at the IDADA Annual Membership Exhibition (the last one!).

In February 2018, Stephen had a solo exhibition of his work at the Harrison Center in Indianapolis.  This featured more than 50 drawings and paintings and was called “Bits and Pieces.”

Stephen graduated in May 2017 from Herron School of Art and Design with a BFA in Painting.  Stephen also has a background as a minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and an M.Div from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis and a BA in Peace Studies from Chapman Univeristy in Orange, CA.  This theological background and interest in the humanities helps inform the way he thinks about symbols and artistic meaning, and his background in Peace Studies informs the way he cares about peace and justice issues.  Stephen lives in Indianapolis with his wife and two sons, aged 4 and 2.