About Stephen H. Smith
Stephen Smith on his farm and in his studio in Marshville, N.C.
Stephen H. Smith, born in Wilmington, NC on November 11, 1955, is best known for his Interactive life-size sculpture of “The Wright Brothers First Flight Centennial Memorial” located in Kill Devil Hills, NC. It consists of seven life-size figural bronzes and a full-scale replica/ design of the 1903 flyer in stainless steel, weighing 10k lbs. including the motor and camera used to photograph the historic occasion cast in bronze.
Stephen is a sculptor of intense focus and dedication to the creation of the human figure. In a detailed anatomically accurate and energetic representation, he has pursued this interest professionally since 1982. His attention to the smallest of detail is incorporated in his large-scale historical portraits and portrait busts with the goal to create not only a physical likeness of the subject but to capture their spirit. His extensive research of the subject, their personality, body language and historically accurate garments have made him highly successful in this genre of sculpture.
Since moving from Atlanta back to his home state to an old farm in Marshville, NC in 1994, Stephen has expanded his creations to include horses and wildlife. The same focus on detail, anatomical accuracy and expression of life is incorporated into these works.
His works are collected privately, in corporations and on University campuses, nationally and internationally.
His previous education in Architecture, a degree from UNC Chapel Hill in Art History, studies in Adaptive Re-use (environmental / interior design) and an MFA in Sculpture from UNC Greensboro, have all influenced his direction of creation.
“My work is a fusion and reflection of our inheritance from past masters, yet composed with the contextual influences of our time, employing materials which will remain for future generations. I feel it is important to create art that exemplifies the beauty and power in nature. The paradox of energy, be it serene or explosive are the forces I try to capture thus creating art which walks in balance and has a life of its own.”
— Stephen H. Smith
