(TOMS RIVER, NJ) -- The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to present an exhibit of air-brushings and paintings by Toms River-based artist Steve Moran throughout the month of August 2023. 

Steve’s extensive portfolio of oil and acrylic paintings includes images of people, wildlife and marine life, florals, still life, and landscapes. In addition to canvas, his work has appeared on cars, motorcycles, clothing and for clients including Michael Jackson, Michael Bolton, the National Football League, and members of America’s Top Model.

As told in his “Meet the Artist” profile on OCL’s YouTube channel, Steve was born into a creative family, sold his first art piece at age 7, and absorbed influence from his commercial artist father and from graphic novels, especially by sci-fi icon Frank Frazetta.

“I believe art is energy,” he said. “That’s what I try to convey. Colors vibrate at different frequencies. We should surround ourselves with music, art, poetry, plants, to increase our own vibrations.”

Steve added that meeting physical challenges, including a stroke in 2022, prompted him to infuse his art with a message of empowerment. “I hope that, knowing my story, people will say, ‘Maybe I should start drawing, or taking that cooking class,’ or whatever they want to do. If I can do it, anybody can do it.”

Steve features his art and custom designs on his website, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube. 

The display is free of charge and open to the public during normal Branch operating hours. For more information, visit www.theoceancountylibrary.org/events, stop by the OCL Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, or call (732) 349-6200.

All images are artwork by Steve Moran