About Stephanie Funke

A native Montanan, Stephanie grew up riding horses on her father's cattle ranch that overlooked the Flathead River in Polson Montana.  It was during these early years, virtually having grown up on the back of a horse, that Stephanie took to drawing which has continued to grow and evolve to this day.

As a self-taught artist, Stephanie has won prestigious awards, most recently in 1996 receiving an arts scholarship after wining Best of Show in the Salish & Kootenai College Art Show after which she was honored with an invitation to attend the National Native American Art Show that was held in South Dakota later that year.

Stephanie's young adult years were spent raising and taking care of her two children, both have gone off to pursue their own life's ambitions.  With an untimely loss of her son, Stephanie was drawn back to the joy and comforts that her love of animals, nature and art has always brought her.

Since becoming a full time artist is 2008, Stephanie has specialized in painting wildlife, equine and Native American arts through the use of pastels as her medium of choice.

Currently living in the Northwest, there is an endless supply of inspiration for her next painting.  When Stephanie isn't painting she enjoys spending time outdoors riding her horses and hiking in Glacier National Park where she is able to find comfort and joy.

Artist Statement

Wildlife and equine paintings are created to portray natures gentle and even playful side of life.  Evoking an intense and even warming emotion which generates a smile from people viewing Stephanies paintings.  These paintings are created by using pastels which lend themselves in the creation of soft and gentle flowing lines and colors found in nature.  Lighting is another element that Stephanie focuses on within her paintings to give the viewer a great sense of time and place within her paintings.

For more information please contact Stephanie directly.  Stephanie Funke Art - 65 NE Whimbrel Ln, Poulsbo, WA 98370 - (406) 250-0238 - stephanie@stephaniefunke.com