Born in Sandpoint, Idaho, Stephen Boren grew up surrounded by art and the outdoors. His father, Nelson Boren, was a watercolorist who specialized in painting western subject matter and encouraged Stephen to spend as much time outside as possible.
 
Just after high school he spent a few months painting with his father before serving a religious mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Afterward, he returned to Rexburg to pursue a degree in Construction Management and met his wife and felt drawn once more to pursue art and painting and follow in Nelson’s footsteps, creating his own spin on watercolor art.
 
Stephen loves to go snowboarding with his family weekly during the season and his love for the outdoors is prominent in his work. His skiers and snowboarders emulate the thrill, and joy found on the beautiful snowy days that the viewer can feel through the movements and flow found within Stephen’s pieces.
 
Watercolor is not a forgiving medium. Though it allows for rich, popping colors, there is little room for error and once paint is put on the paper it’s there for good. His process includes adding many layers or “washes” and by doing so, the colors seemingly explode off the canvas. The subjects depicted in Stephens pieces are usually members of his family. He loves painting his wife, and by doing so emotionally connects with the painting. Painting is a form of release and comfort to Stephen, and allows him to fully express his love for the outdoors and stay connected with his dad.