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Stephen Williams
PART 2: To be a giant
Our final giant of San Diego is Stephen Williams, an abstract painter, certified art therapy practitioner, and the founder of The Hyangle in Downtown San Diego—an art gallery, studio, and community space.
When we first visited Stephen in his studio, we were drawn to its big windows and natural light, truly making it feel like a calm sanctuary tucked away in the city. This is where Stephen works on his paintings, often large-scale canvases that can take months to make, and it helps him set the ambiance for creating.
For Stephen, painting is all about intuitive motion and feeling. His process incorporates breathwork, experimentation, and reflection to create harmony and cohesion while also inviting spontaneity and imperfection. Ultimately, by allowing himself to create based on how he feels, his layered canvases are deeply expressive, exploring healing and mental health.
“It’s all based on feeling... I allow it to be spontaneous. I allow it to be imperfect... just intuitive and how I feel in the moment.”
–Stephen Williams on his approach to painting
In addition to his personal practice, Stephen ties his wellbeing mission to The Hyangle, hosting art therapy workshops and partnering with organizations and nonprofits for events that bring the community together. These programs often work closely with veterans, adults with developmental disabilities, children, older adults, and other vulnerable populations through therapeutic art classes.
“I cannot be attached to things just because I like it. I can’t develop a practice that only serves me. I’m serving others. I’m the vessel for these pieces.”
–Stephen Williams on being able to let go during his artistic process
He reflects that his approach to artmaking and workshops feels connected to his childhood. Stephen tells us that as a child, art helped him to process his surroundings, and it gave him a release. It was his therapy back then, and it still is now.
Connect with Stephen Williams:
Executive Producer: Willa M.; Producer: Imani Camara, Lena Shareef; Writer: Willa M.; Photographer: TIKA; Graphic Design Lead: Hailey Honegger; Graphic Design: Alejandro Mendoza Mercado; Editor: Lena Shareef; PA: Melissa Zuazo