Steenz’s Story
Steenz also pioneered Comics University, a free program that delves into the history and creation of comics. This initiative reflects their philosophy that storytelling and education are crucial for community development and individual growth. Through their classes and public speaking, Steenz encourages individuals to share their stories, whether they are light-hearted or deeply personal, as a means of mutual understanding and aid.
Their efforts extend beyond traditional education; Steenz actively participates in community-building through art. They highlight the significance of seeing oneself represented in one's field, as it can be transformative. This was evident when they shared their personal journey into comics after discovering Black comic creators, which inspired them to pursue a career in the field. Steenz's work is a testament to the impact of accessible art education and the importance of community support in nurturing potential and fostering a cooperative environment in the arts.
Steenz, who uses they/them pronouns, is a prominent cartoonist, educator, and editor, known for their work on the syndicated comic strip "Heart of the City," which is featured in over 100 newspapers across the country. In addition to their artistic endeavors, Steenz is deeply involved in education, teaching cartooning at Webster University and orchestrating the St. Louis Independent Comics Expo (SLICE). This annual event gathers a diverse array of artists—from cartoonists to poets—promoting paper-based arts and fostering a vibrant creative community.
Beyond their roles in art and teaching, Steenz is committed to making arts education accessible and free whenever possible, particularly through initiatives like SLICE. They believe strongly in the power of mutual aid and community support, principles they embed in their educational programs. Throughout the year, SLICE offers a variety of arts-focused programming that is free and accessible, challenging the norm that quality arts education must come at a high cost.
