Ivan Stevens, known professionally as IRSTEV, is a British expressionist artist whose work is deeply informed by a 20-year career as a Qualified Psychiatric Nurse. I transitioned into fine art practice full-time in 2016, using my creative practice to explore themes of emotional struggle, mindfulness, and the human condition.

Early Life & Career Pivot

• Medical Background: Before my art career, I spent over two decades in Nursing, qualifying as a Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RMN) in 1995 and later as a Paediatric Nurse (RSCN).

• Artistic Transition: In 2012, I began formal art training with a foundation course at Bournville School of Art.

• Academic Excellence: I earned a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Fine Art from Birmingham City University in 2016, graduating with Distinction and winning the Gertrude Aston Bowater bequest prize for excellence in sculpture.

Artistic Philosophy & Inspiration

• Emotional Expressionism: I describe myself as an "Expressionist Artist" who channels creative urges to battle human indifference and process the "emotional struggle of life".

• Interests: my perspective is shaped by a lifelong passion for antiquities and archaeology, as well as currently taking PhD research at Aberystwyth University focusing on the history of the occult, paganism, and astrology.

• Therapeutic Value: I view art-making as a vital tool for promoting relaxation and mental health, helping the artist to de-stress from the challenges of modern day life and achieve a state of relaxation and mindfulness. Art making is therefore for everyone.

Major Achievements & Recognition

• Exhibitions: My work has been featured in prestigious venues, including Sotheby’s London (as part of the 2023/24 Humanity exhibition), the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists (RBSA), and the Piano Nobile Gallery.

• Awards: Recent accolades include being longlisted for the Visual Artists Association (VAA) Artist of the Year 2025 and shortlisted for the VAA International Art 500 competition.

• Collective Membership: I am active an member of Outside In, a charity supporting artists facing barriers, and I am represented by the Macabre Gallery and the Dark Art Movement.

• VAA Preferred Artist Status
  Formal recognition as a VAA Preferred Artist, affirming your commitment to professionalism and excellence