Steven F. Arnold
photographer
Steven F. Arnold (1943–1994) was a prominent American multidisciplinary artist known for his visionary photography, filmmaking, and set design. A protégé of Salvador Dalí, Arnold developed a unique aesthetic that blended Surrealism with Jungian archetypes, Eastern philosophy, and theatricality. He is particularly noted for his 'tableau vivant' (living pictures)—meticulously staged, static scenes featuring costumed characters in imaginative settings. His work often explored spiritual themes, mythology, and the subconscious. Based in Los Angeles during the 1980s, he established a salon called Zanzibar where he hosted nightly gatherings that influenced the local counter-culture scene. Arnold's artistic practice was deeply personal, informed by his experiences with LSD, his friendship with muse Pandora, and his interest in ritualistic imagery. His works are held in major collections worldwide, including the Whitney Museum of American Art and MoMA.[1,2,3,4]
- Surrealism
- Tableau vivant
- Jungian archetypes
- Eastern philosophy
- Mythology
Books
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EPIPHANIES€89.00
Works by Steven F. Arnold
- 1987 Epiphanies Photographs by Steven Arnold with text/afterword by James Leo Herlihy.
- 1983 Reliquaries Photographs by Steven Arnold with introduction by Ellen Burstyn.
- 1988 Angels of Night Photographs by Steven Arnold.
- 1971 Luminous Procuress Short film directed by Arnold.
Exhibitions
- 2022 Theophanies
Awards
- 1972 New Director's award