From keepsakes to valuables, necessaries to unmentionables, Steve has always been fascinated by what possessions reveal about people – and what they choose to carry around. So when the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) had begun scanning carry-on bags of airline passengers for security purposes, he jumped at the opportunity to delve into the backgrounds of anonymous fellow travelers by making art from their confiscated goods.
His "Banned Booty" installations are sculptural paintings consisting of mixed media, including actual items confiscated at airport security checkpoints, resin, acrylic, stainless steel and pigment on canvas.
Using a shipping container not only enables him to conveniently mobilize his exhibit, but also offers an exquisite exterior canvas for a vintage illustration of air passengers on the tarmac ready to board.