Header image: Abstract anchor photography by Greg Steele

Featured Artists: Greg and Donna Steele

“Eclectic” is probably an overused word today, but it is a good description for the work of Greg and Donna Steele—the ultimate opportunists. The couple moved here last year and you’ve seen their work in the Alberta House shop. We call them opportunists because the direction their art takes depends on what they find to work with. Most of their art is crafted of recycled materials that were used originally for something far different. Gently tinkling wind chimes are made of recycled glass, tumbled until smooth and strung in a creative balance of shape and color by Donna. Clocks are made of recycled computer parts. Discarded camera lenses, Great Lakes rocks and fossils become jewelry. In the opinion of Donna and Greg, there isn’t a material that can’t be used—it’s simply a matter of turning on the creativity to produce something of value from them.

The Steeles began creating art from recycled materials in 1980 in the Keewanaw Peninsula. Greg is originally from the Point Betsy Lighthouse on Lake Michigan; Donna spent part of her childhood in Boyne City before moving to California.

Last month the couple opened the Riverstone Gallery at 413 Ashmun Street, where the Frozen North was previously located. It features their work from recycled materials, Greg’s outstanding photographs and other Michigan items. You can reach them there at 635-6033.

Works by Greg and Donna Steele Click on a thumbnail to see a larger version.
Photograph of St. Mary’s River cabin by Greg Steele	Digital Sunrise, photograph by Greg Steele
Abstract anchor photograph by Greg Steele
Jewelry from recycled camera lenses by Donna Steele	Recycled glass wind chimes by Donna Steele

Last updated: March 2, 2008

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Sault Area Arts Council  Home Page 217 Ferris Street, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
e-mail: saac@saultarts.org    Phone: (906) 635-1312