Encore Fine Art is the creative outlet for Steve Bachtel…I am a semi-retired geologist exploring the overlap of art and science; specifically geology. My geology career was predominately with oil companies, but most of my time was spent in research and teaching roles. My job allowed me to travel the world and see many styles and ages of carbonate reservoirs both in the field and the lab. It also allowed me to interact with people from other cultures and expanded my view of the world. I have really enjoyed teaching geology, especially in the field, both for oil companies as well as an Adjunct Professor at The University of Texas.

Geology has its own unique lexicon and subdisciplines (Sedimentology, Paleontology, Stratigraphy, Volcanology etc.) yet also includes subdisciplines from many other sciences (including Geophysics, Geochemistry, Biology, Oceanography, etc.). This provides multiple perspectives on understanding the Earth and stresses the importance of integration and communication between a wide variety of scientists.

Geology is one of the most artistic of sciences. Many geologic interpretations are made with very sparse datasets so imagination and creativity play a major role. The ability to make a well constructed scientific diagram that easily conveys an abstract idea is important to communicating creative interpretations.

The elements of art and design can be seen in the Earth at a variety of scales, from the form, shape, and pattern of microscopic organisms (and fossils!) to the large-scale patterns and lineation of regional fault systems, or concentric, curving scars from a meandering river (best viewed with satellite data). Crystals of minerals provide a variety of shapes, forms, and colors and when viewed with a microscope provide a kaleidoscope of color as the stage is rotated, especially under polarized light. Fossils provide a near endless combination of shapes, lines and textures. Geology is a very wide, encompassing science and provides many niches to explore, at various scales, to take artistic inspiration from.

My art is currently exploring how geology can be used as an inspiration for art. I am not sure where this will lead, but products will range from realistic to fully abstract. It has been interesting to revisit sites where I worked in the past, and now look at the same rocks through an artistic lens. I am currently exploring different media including drawing, relief printing, and painting. My style is leaning towards graphic-realism and I enjoy art that summarizes the geology of Central Oregon, geologic themes from my career, and other imaginative works that test my technique and allows growth as an artist.