Today we’d like to introduce you to Timothy Steller.
Hi Timothy, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Tim Steller, founder of Steller Artworks & Designs, didn’t set out to become an artist in the traditional sense—his journey began in the restaurant industry, where he spent years working long hours before a single moment shifted everything. After the birth of his first son, he found himself searching for something more meaningful—something he could build, not just work.
One afternoon, browsing free listings on Craigslist, he came across a discarded pallet of wood. Where most would see scrap, Tim saw potential. Inspired by an image he found online, he attempted his first piece: a shark cut from reclaimed wood for his son’s bedroom. But it wasn’t the shark itself that sparked something—it was the empty space around it. The negative space created depth, movement, and a completely different kind of visual impact.
A few months later, that idea evolved even further when he discovered battery-powered LED lights. By placing them behind the cutout, the piece transformed at night—what was once a simple wall hanging became a glowing, immersive experience. In that moment, the concept behind his work was born.
What followed was organic. A couple of early pieces sold to friends, then to friends of friends, and eventually to his first customer on Craigslist. That first sale wasn’t just a transaction—it was validation. It was the moment he realized he could turn this into something real.
Today, Tim’s work is instantly recognizable. Using reclaimed wooden boards arranged in staggered patterns, he sketches detailed scenes directly onto the surface before cutting them out entirely by hand with a jigsaw. The process reveals intricate negative space, which he then enhances with layered wood stains and acrylic paints—often depicting coastal sunsets, ocean life, and custom client visions. Each piece is finished with integrated LED lighting, allowing it to shift from a natural, rustic artwork by day into a glowing, atmospheric statement piece at night.
Over the past twelve years—seven of them full-time—Tim has built a reputation for creating one-of-a-kind pieces that sit at the intersection of woodworking, fine art, and functional design. He has traveled extensively throughout Southwest Florida, consistently selling out shows and building a loyal following. His work now lives in homes across the United States and internationally, with custom installations in restaurants, bars, hotels, and businesses.
But beyond the growth and recognition, what matters most to him is impact. His work isn’t just about the finished product—it’s about connection. Seeing a client light up when they receive a piece, or later share photos of it displayed proudly in their home, remains one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.
Above all, Tim sees his art as something bigger than himself. It began as a way to create a better life for his family, and it continues as a way to lead by example. For his two sons, his journey is proof that passion, risk, and belief in your craft can build something meaningful—not just creatively, but in life.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The biggest struggle is trying to keep up with the fast pace world that we live in.And every year cost a living doubles. I’m sure all of us can relate to that in one way or another.So trying to be a full time artist in the year 2026 comes with daily challenges, but the best part is knowing that artwork is becoming more valuable than ever in this digital world. Anything and everything handmade will be looked at in such a different view
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Using reclaimed wood, I create layered, hand-cut scenes with a jigsaw, revealing intricate negative space that he enhances with stains and acrylics. Each piece is finished with integrated LED lighting, shifting from rustic wall art by day to a glowing, immersive experience by night. This is what makes my art form so unique and apart from any other.
Still to this day? I am most proud of being able to show this to my boys. As a real way of making a living and making impressions worldwide.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Stay focused , and remember no matter how good you do stay humble. You will have plenty of obstacles along the way but “There is no such thing as a problem, its your attitude towards it”
I had no clue what I was doing in the very beginning and no YouTube to rely on. No one was doing this art form yet. So that excited me and made me want to explore every option I could and yes my family looked at me as if insane but I keep saying just wait , I know what I see for the future and right now I am just trying to get there
Pricing:
- $200 –
- $10,000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://StellerArtworks.com
- Instagram: tim_steller
- Facebook: Steller Artworks
