In the late 80's, Harlan relocated just outside Washington, DC, He resides in Prince Frederick, Maryland where outside his studio, the Chesapeake Bay offers a constant source of stimulation for future works.  Harlan's style is distinctive and compelling to the viewer.  The first question anyone asks is, "How is it done"?  Read below a description in Harlan's own words of his unique way of "painting" his works on his computer with a technique designed by the artist.  Then enjoy some some examples of Stephen Harlan's limited edition giclees.  Each image is available on canvas or paper and can be purchased in a number of sizes and prices to fit your individual situation. 

Stephen James Harlan-Painting technique

"The process I use to create my artwork is quite unique when you think in terms of traditional painting. I create all my artwork digitally using a very powerful computer that is customized with special tools and software to create such complicated pieces. There are two different ways that I approach a painting.  If I have a specific idea of what I want to depict, I start with a simple pencil sketch.  If I don’t have an idea of what I want, I simply start with a blank screen. I use a combination of software to achieve the various effects, depending on the mood of the piece.

 The first step in the process of developing a painting is a wire frame depiction.  This is very primitive, but sets the tone for the basic layout and perspective. My artwork is somewhat hyper photo-realistic in terms of perspective, detail, color, shadows and light. There are times when I look at a finished piece and don’t even remember some of the extremely detailed features and reflections. When I paint, I expand a very small portion of the screen to a very small area and then zoom back out to a full frame.  For example, in the detail of a flower, one petal of the flower will take up a 21 inch monitor screen.  By doing this, I can paint the finest detail, down to a drop of water on a leaf.

 I never really know what a finished painting will look like until I actually print out a large proof. The painting is done using electronic brushes that I have programmed.  The programming is dependent upon the look I want to achieve.  I can depict oils, acrylics, watercolors, and pastels.  The screen is designated as “wet” paint when I start.  After finishing a session, I “dry” it.  Each time work is continued, this process is repeated.

 The amount of time spent creating a piece depends on the amount of detail I want to achieve.  Some pieces will take one week while others may take a month.  The detailing process can be infinite with elements continually added, so sometimes it’s difficult to know when a piece is finished.   All scenes are fictional and spring from my imagination.  My motivation stems from wanting to create a general feeling of 'I want to be in that place'".

"Floating Candles" 

Solomons Island, Maryland

"BoatHouse" 

"Follow the Stairs"

"Along the Canal"