Steve Klein, born in Los Angeles in 1946, is a distinguished American glass artist renowned for his innovative kiln-formed and blown glass sculptures. Initially pursuing a career in sales and management within the industrial sector, Klein’s artistic journey commenced at the age of 50 when he enrolled at the Pilchuck Glass School in Stanwood, Washington, in 1996. This pivotal experience marked the beginning of his profound engagement with glass as an artistic medium.
Steve Klein’s educational background includes a degree in Theatre Arts from California State University, Long Beach. However, it was his immersion in the world of glass art that defined his creative trajectory. His work is deeply influenced by abstract expressionist painters such as Richard Diebenkorn, Piet Mondrian, Mark Rothko, Barnett Newman, Joan Miró, and Jackson Pollock, as well as the ceramist Jun Kaneko. These influences are evident in his exploration of shape, color, and texture within his glass sculptures.
Residing in La Conner, Washington, Steve Klein maintains a studio where he crafts his distinctive pieces. His artistic process involves the use of shape, color, line, texture, and the unique reflective qualities of glass to convey personal observations and experiences. He states, “Through the complexity, versatility, and beauty of glass, I explore personal observations and experiences.”
Steve Klein’s work has evolved over the years, with recent themes focusing on environmental concerns, global warming, and the degradation of the natural world. Howard N. Fox, Curator Emeritus at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, remarked on Klein’s art, noting its “sumptuousness and sensuality, the elegance and refined physicality of form, color, texture, and scale are undeniably and assertively present in his sculptures.”
His sculptures are part of numerous permanent collections worldwide, including the Museum of Glass in Tacoma, Washington; the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City; the Museo del Vidrio in Spain; Tsinghua University Museum in Beijing; the Tissot Museum in Taipei, Taiwan; the National Museums of Scotland in Edinburgh; the Eretz Israel Museum in Tel Aviv; the Museum of Northwest Art in Washington; the Oakland Museum of California; and the Racine Art Museum in Wisconsin.
Are You Looking to Sell Art by Steve Klein?
Collectors seeking to sell Steve Klein art from their collections should be aware of the significant value his pieces can command in the art market. For instance, Klein’s “Exploration XIII,” a mottled glass sculpture from 2000, was estimated to sell between $2,000 and $3,000 at auction. Another piece, “Exploration XCIV” from 2007, also had an estimated value of $2,000 to $3,000.
Given the appreciation of Steve Klein art over the years, it is advisable for collectors to have their pieces professionally appraised to determine current market value. Auctioning is often the most effective method to achieve maximum value for such artworks, as it exposes the piece to a broad audience of potential buyers, fostering competitive bidding.
Lion & Unicorn, a premier auction house based in South Florida, specializes in art, antiques, and collectibles. With over 30 years of experience, Lion & Unicorn offers comprehensive services, including certified appraisals, valuation services, estate sales, and nationwide pickup, packing, and transport. Their main gallery and production studio are located in Hollywood, Florida, with additional offices in Palm Beach, Orlando, Miami, and Naples. Engaging with Lion & Unicorn ensures that your Steve Klein art receives the professional attention it deserves, maximizing its potential at auction.
Steve Klein’s contributions to the field of glass art have solidified his reputation as a significant contemporary artist. Collectors interested in selling Steve Klein art are encouraged to seek professional appraisal and consider auctioning through reputable houses like Lion & Unicorn to achieve optimal returns on their investments.