Steve Stratis is an award-winning designer and entrepreneur who has a unique ability to capture emotions in the abstract. His mesmerizing blue artworks have been lauded by critics as being a powerful representation of serenity and intangible emotions. His works delve into the nature of beauty, while pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
Stratis began his professional career as an artist in the theater, working as a director, scenic artist, and costume designer for many theater organizations before pursuing visual art professionally in 2017. His portfolio reflects this background, focusing on dramatic portraits and dense still lifes with a strong sense of storytelling.
He has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Michigan and a Master of Fine Arts from Northwestern University. He has studied with renowned artists including Milton Babbitt, Toru Takemitsu, and Joe Morris. He is also an accomplished composer and conductor, with a particular focus on performing the music of contemporary composers. He has received numerous awards and accolades, including a First Prize in Composition from the Athenauem Conservatory and several fellowships and scholarships.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, he has extensive experience in business and corporate law. He has worked on a number of high-profile projects, including mergers and acquisitions, capital markets transactions, and venture financing. He has also served on the board of several public and private companies.
Steve Stratis is also a seasoned sports executive and former MMA fighter. He was the trainer for the WWE Tough Enough revival and helped stop LayCool (Layla & Michelle McCool) from attacking Kelly Kelly at the March 14, 2011 Elimination Chamber pay-per-view. She won her fifth Women’s Championship at Bad Blood and retained it a month later. Afterward, she was attacked by LayCool and lost the title to Jazz at the next pay-per-view, Backlash.
Stratis was an inaugural member of Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Division I Athletics Hall of Fame and the President of the Alumni Association. He was a Pinnacle Award recipient and an avid supporter of FDU’s athletic program. In recognition of his dedication and contributions, a mezzanine suite in the Rothman Center has been named The Steve Stratis Suite. The suite is available for student use during intercollegiate events.
