Steven Austin (AKA American Schizo) is a first-generation American Lithuanian, born and raised in the Bay Area of California.

He considers himself an underdog, a grinder who endured a rough upbringing that made him who he is today. He moved to Colorado in 2017 and graduated from CSU with an undergrad in clinical and counseling psychology in 2020. Following that achievement, he became a teacher to fifth-grade students and constructed a reputable career as an MMA fighter, until a major back injury forced him to move on from that dream. 

In 2021, Steven was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. With every urge to give up along the way, he instead continues to fight. According to Steven, these challenges have shaped his life and created an advantage, forming what he calls his superpower. His goal in life is to help others and build a strong community, encouraging others to discover their best lives without going through hell alone like he did. 

Steven believes the perspective he has due to his disorder is an invaluable tool. He thrives off vulnerability, authenticity and kindness, and this is where his art plays a huge role. He does not strive to paint what everyone else sees around them. The goal of his art is to intrigue the viewer’s perspective. His paintings are derived from raw motion. They come from what he sees in his head and feels obligated to translate onto a canvas. 

Steven started painting vigorously in February of 2024 and has never looked back. He considers his art his personal path and how he continues to beat this disease, tunneling his way to the other side. Steven’s art has been shown in numerous exhibitions and galleries, and has also been accepted into magazines and a local mural.