Steven Yu (b. 1984, Woonsocket, RI) is a self-taught American artist of Asian heritage, recognized for his expressive artwork that is inspired through the movement and teachings of the yogic path. Raised in the “Ocean State” of Rhode Island, Steven currently resides in Phoenix, Arizona where he continues to develop and infuse his yogic practice into his artwork.

From an early age, Steven found an affinity with drawing comic book characters and cartoon figures. Infatuated with capturing the human form in motion, his attention shifted toward sketching skateboarders and martial artists. Captivated by the art of realism and experimenting with elements of light, depth and volume in his pieces.

After a brief stint in graphic arts, and being introduced to a new found passion of yoga, Steven’s heart and intuition drew him back into sketching the human figure. Spending the winter of 2024 in Florence, Italy, studying at Florence Classical Arts Academy, as well as involving himself in a local yoga community, his work has shifted to yogic path inspired art pieces. His work is represented by Yoga Garage (Florence, ITL), Shepherd’s Run (South Kingstown, RI), Namaste Yoga Studio (Scottsdale, AZ), as well as the homes of many collectors.

In addition to his fine art practice, Steven is a dedicated student of the centuries old yogic practice. Keeping his flame of artistic inspiration burning with consistency and commitment not only to himself, but studios he’s involved with and their communities.

My work is inspired through yogic teachings and the community I choose to surround myself with. Offering an artistic reflection of any and all yogic practitioner. I work primarily with charcoal and pastel, but also appreciate the expressiveness of watercolor.

I am captivated by the liberation of human form. Our ability to self-express without judgement. Yoga asana (posture) practice guides us to our threshold, physically and emotionally, and allows us to surpass what we may have been fearful or hesitant of. Creating art within this comfort of vulnerability allows clients to view themselves in ways they may not have seen prior too.

My inspiration is deeply rooted in self-empowerment within expressive human form. Allowing clients to explore an expression of themselves that may feel harbored or dormant.

When viewers encounter my work, my hope is to capture the essence of emotion. Not simply visibly, but spiritually as well. To see the beauty in the bold, and feel an urge to move, to create and to inspire.

“Working with Steven was an incredible experience from start to finish. We commissioned him to create a portrait of my family paddleboarding through the Grand Canyon, and what he delivered was beyond anything we could have imagined.

He didn’t just recreate a moment, he captured the spirit of it. The way he brought out the essence of me, my wife, and each of my children is something truly special. You can feel the energy, the connection, and the individuality of every person in the piece, all while staying true to his unique artistic style.

There’s a depth to his work that goes far beyond technique. You can see his passion and creativity in every detail. The movement, the emotion, the storytelling woven into the scene. It’s not just art on a wall, it’s a living memory.

We feel incredibly honored to have this piece in our home. Steven created something timeless for our family, and I can’t recommend him enough to anyone looking for meaningful, soulful artwork.”

- Chris & Brandi Altrichter

“After taking a yoga class taught by Steven, it was evident that he had a true command of all postures. Upon viewing artwork he had created, I decided a custom piece would be a memorable treasure. We chose a yoga pose that we both thought would look good in my space, and Steven went to work. A special piece of artwork such as this from a true master of his craft, will help take your practice to the next level every time you glance at it.”

- Toby Roberts