An ‘epiphany’ at Watts Towers in the mid-1970’s was probably the catalyzing moment - when the art of the self-taught became more than an interest; rather, a passion. This led to seeking and collecting their art, visits with various living artists in the region and to other sites, as well as involvement with The Orange Show in Houston while the creator, Jeff McKissack, was still alive. (Susan was a founding member of the original Eyeopener Tour committee, which is still going strong today.) Similar sites around the world have also been sought out and visited whenever we travel.

     Our education in the arts at Rice University (Robert is a licensed architect and Susan’s degree is in Art History, with additional studies with photographic masters Lee Friedlander and Geoff Winningham) has given us the background for understanding and appreciating not only the creations of the self-taught, but of other cultures. Living overseas, first in the Middle East and now in Thailand, plus extensive travel around the world has provided contexts for studying the people and the material culture of Africa, Asia, Indonesia and the Middle East. We have learned a lot by observing firsthand how different societies live and function, and how certain objects have meaning and power within those societies. For those we’ve not personally observed, we actively study and seek available information. The adventure is ongoing and never ceases to make us marvel at the creativity of man and womankind.


Susan & Robert Stem