Our Story
Hello, I’m Jay Stieler, principal artist here at Coast Art House. I’ve been blessed to call the beautiful Central Coast of California home for most of my life. Its unspoiled and breathtaking natural environment continues to be my biggest inspiration. There's something about the wild landscapes and vibrant atmosphere of this area that fuels creativity.
While I’ve explored different mediums over the years, I’ve discovered that watercolors provide an ideal challenge. The way watercolor behaves—its spontaneity and unpredictability—keeps me on my toes and makes every painting an adventure. The best part? The unexpected results that emerge, giving each piece its own story.
Thank you so much for visiting my site and taking the time to explore my work. If you have any questions or just want to chat, feel free to reach out to me via email or social media. I’d love to connect!
Enjoying some plein air painting at Sandollar Beach.
My Painting Style and Inspiration
When I paint with watercolors, I try to focus on the values, contrasts, and interaction of light and shadow, aiming to bring depth and atmosphere to every piece. Seascapes, particularly those along the Central Coast, captivate me, though the entire region offers endless inspiration. Whether it’s the long shadows of coastal cliffs at dawn, the midday brilliance of sunlit waves, or the warm glow of the valleys at sunset, I seek to capture those fleeting moments when light and landscape unite.
The Central Coast is an enchanting place, with its rugged coastlines, golden beaches, and vibrant skies. With such beauty all around, inspiration is always close. Each scene is unique, and my goal is to reflect how these natural elements combine to create a serene, meditative atmosphere—inviting viewers to pause and take it all in.