Ben Steele: A POP of Art! Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lisa Taylor
Osprey Nest Enterprises
703.725.3465
[email protected]
Stephanie Adamo
Director of Marketing
727.892.4200 ext.1037
[email protected]
The James Museum Announces Ben Steele: A POP of Art! Melding Iconic and Popular Culture Imagery for a Unique Contemporary Art Experience, Opening October 11
James Museum to Offer Free Museum Admission on Indigenous People’s Day October 13
Sept. 16, 2025 – St. Petersburg, Fla. — The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art today announced a vibrant new pop-up exhibition opening October 11 – Ben Steele: A POP of Art! Featuring ten paintings by the Utah-based contemporary artist, the special installation invites visitors to experience the wit, skill and playful imagination of Steele (born 1977). The paintings are on loan from The Tom and Mary James/Raymond James Financial Art Collection. The Jameses have been collectors of Steele’s work for 20 years.
The James Museum also announced that, in addition to Free Museum Day on September 20, it will offer free admission on Indigenous People’s Day, October 13, giving guests two upcoming opportunities to explore the museum’s Western and wildlife art collections. Advance registration is required to guarantee entry for both days and can be completed here for September 20 and here for October 13.
“Pop art has been a significant phenomenon of 20th and 21st century art through the work of artists such as Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Tom Wesselmann. Ben Steele continues this approach with a unique and highly imaginative view of art and popular culture of the West. We are thrilled to present his innovative art at The James,” said James Museum Executive Director Robin Nicholson.
Steele presents a new twist on familiar subjects. Combining familiar art historical references and popular culture, he creates clever compositions that evoke nostalgia and a smile. Proficient in styles ranging from Realism to Pop, Steele sometimes alters his signature to harmonize with each painting.
Curated by James Museum Chief Curator Emily Kapes, the exhibition includes works displayed at Raymond James’ offices in St. Petersburg that are not often seen by the public. The special installation will be presented in the hall adjacent to the Earth and Humanity Foundation Wildlife Gallery.
“These paintings show that Ben Steele is as clever as he is talented,” said Kapes. “The art gives audiences the chance to play along and ask: What famous references do you recognize?”
For more information about The James Museum, its collection, special exhibitions and special events, visit the website.
Key Takeaways
- Reimagined Masterpieces – Opening October 11, Ben Steele: A POP of Art! includes playful reinterpretations of Vermeer, Sargeant, Dali and Michelangelo.
- Pop Culture Meets Fine Art – The ten pieces showcased in the installation include references to nostalgic icons such as a Pez dispenser, an Etch-A-Sketch, and even a classic Coca-Cola bottle, painted with Old Master technique.
- Signature Surprises – Steele often changes his autograph to harmonize with the style of the artwork.
- Free Museum Admission – The James Museum is offering free admission with registration on Free Museum Day, September 20, and on Indigenous People’s Day, October 13.
Members of the media can find photo and video assets here.
###