About

Stephen Erik Schirle (b. 1982, Los Angeles, California) is a figurative oil painter whose work investigates personal symbolism through classical portraiture and representations of the human form. His paintings merge rigorous technical training with deeply personal narrative, creating works that function as both intimate self-examination and universal exploration of the human condition.

Schirle's relationship with drawing began in childhood, but it was during his senior year of high school that he began the formal study of the figure from life. This early commitment to observational drawing established the foundation for everything that followed. After graduating, he enrolled at the Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art, where his talent caught the attention of his instructor, who hired him to work at a videogame studio at the age of 22. This opportunity marked the beginning of a nearly twenty-year career in the entertainment industry.

Seeking to deepen his understanding of classical technique, Schirle traveled to Italy to study briefly at the Florence Academy of Art, where he refined his approach to drawing and furthered his technical approach. He then returned to work in the film industry as both a concept artist and visual effects artist, contributing his skills to numerous large productions. Throughout these decades in entertainment, Schirle continued his painting practice for the love of it.

Collections

  • Director, Guillermo del Toro, California

Selected Exhibitions

  • 2025- Five and Under - Arcadia Contemporary - NYC, NY

  • 2025 - CONTEMPORARY SYMBOLISM - Ryan Graff Contemporary - SF, CA

  • 2020 - LA Art Show - Arcadia Contemporary - Los Angeles, CA

  • 2019 - Five and Under - Arcadia Contemporary - Pasadena, CA

  • 2013 - SELFISH - Kathrine Cone Gallery - Culver City, CA

Awards

  • 2019 - Art Renewal Center Salon Finalist

  • 2009 - The Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant

  • 2007 - Art Renewal Center Salon Finalist

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