Meet Our Teacher:
Steve Coffee

Steve Coffey is an accomplished artist and educator with a lifelong passion for art. As a child, he lived in his grandmother’s 14th-century home in Great Ryburgh, England, a place rich in history that deeply influenced his creativity. Surrounded by landmarks like the 8th-century “Old Church,” Steve was immersed in the historical charm of his environment.

Growing up in a military family stationed in Europe, Steve and his brothers explored ancient ruins and developed a love for art and history. His artistic journey began at just three years old, drawing with a pencil and paper while his mother tended to his younger brothers. Steve’s natural talent was so advanced that he was often disqualified from school art contests because judges couldn’t believe a child could produce such work.

During his Navy service, Steve spent leave visiting museums in Scotland, England, Italy, and France to study works by Masters like Rembrandt and Michelangelo. He later earned a BFA in Drawing, BSEd, MFA in Ceramics, and MEd with Master Teacher certification.

Steve has taught art for decades, including founding a Magnet School program in Georgia. Now at Heart Encounters, he inspires students of all ages in ceramics, pottery, drawing, and painting.

A Life Shaped by Art, History, and Inspiration