“I feel most like myself painting in the studio… but most alive in the pub.”

Meet Stephen Shaw — a quiet powerhouse in the world of watercolour, tucked into the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast.

Known for his finely detailed, painterly works, Stephen brings life and light to the overlooked corners of the city — peeling doorways, old signage, and forgotten brickwork become luminous through his brush. His paintings might evoke nostalgia, but for Stephen, it’s more about seeing the everyday in a new way.

He’s received major recognition — Best Watercolour from the Royal Ulster Academy, Best Townscape from the Ulster Watercolour Society, and full RUA membership in 2022 — but he still describes himself simply as shy and hard-working.

His legacy? “I hope people remember me as kind… and fun.”

Over time, he says he’s grown to love his own modesty.

And that feels just right.

Stephenshaw.Belfast@live.com