Artist Spotlight: Steve Dayton
“My advice to young artists would be not to wait to be let in. No one will grant you the right to start creating. It is up to you to just create.”
Videographer and photographer by day, movie writer/director/editor by night, Steve Dayton does it all. His directorial debut, “Pop Punk Zombies” (2011) was distributed by Brain Damage Films. Click here for more on Steve’s forthcoming film, “Give” and follow the film on Instagram. Scroll on to learn more about Steve’s start in the movies.
1.) Tell us a bit about your “art origin story”? When did you first fall in love with your art?
Everyone loves movies and I was just like everyone else but I came late to the game when it game to making movies. When I was a senior in high school we had the option to make a video highlighting what we had learned in class. I jumped at the chance because I felt like it would be an easy out. In the long run, it became my biggest outlet. In the middle of making that video with my friends, it became apparent that I was taking the process much more seriously, and I craved the desire to keep getting behind the camera. Since that first movie, I don't think there has been a day that I haven't been in the process of making a new video.
2.) What role have teachers played in your development as an artist? Any one stand out?
My English teacher that year really paved the way to my new passion by just opening the door to that world. I was given an avenue that I had not know before or even thought of. I have many mentors along the way and what I've found in them all is that they are open and honest about on how they work and cared about what they could also learn from me.
3.) What advice would you give to young folks thinking about pursuing an education or career in the arts?
My advice to young artists would be not to wait to be let in. No one will grant you the right to start creating. It is up to you to just create. Just create!
4.) Describe how you use art and creativity in your craft as well as your everyday life.
Art, for me, has always been about empathy. I use creativity and art to look at the world around me and try to connect with other people. I would say that most artists feel like they are on the outside and use their medium to connect with other people.
5.) How can art make the world a better place? Can you share a personal example?
I think art can make the world a better place by shining a light on the human experience. The thing that has always drawn me to movies is how they inspire me to think outside of myself and force me to examine the world around me. I believe art connects us all and allows our stories to be shared with others who need to hear those stories.