Steve Wariner
Steve Wariner has reached another milestone in his career, this time with a paintbrush rather than a guitar.
During his July 10 performance at the Grand Ole Opry, the country legend became the first performer in the venue’s history to have original artwork projected onto the Opry’s iconic barn backdrop. The moment happened during a performance of “6120,” Wariner’s tribute to guitarist Chet Atkins, with guest fiddler Jimmy Mattingly joining him onstage.
The visual presentation marked an intersection of Wariner’s two lifelong creative pursuits. While audiences have known him for decades as a GRAMMY-winning singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, painting has quietly remained a significant part of his artistic life. Ten original works were displayed throughout the performance, transforming the Opry stage into a gallery celebrating both his musical and visual artistry.
The appearance also comes shortly after Wariner celebrated 30 years as a Grand Ole Opry member.
Fans interested in exploring the full scope of Wariner’s artwork can visit The Flip Side: Paintings by Steve Wariner, a retrospective exhibition on display through July 26 at the Monthaven Arts & Cultural Center outside Nashville. The collection features 60 pieces created over more than three decades, spanning oil, acrylic, watercolor and mixed media.
The exhibition reflects the breadth of experiences Wariner has accumulated throughout his career. Landscapes inspired by the American countryside, coastal scenes, portraits and guitar-themed works sit alongside more abstract compositions, showcasing an artist equally comfortable working across styles and mediums.
Wariner described seeing his paintings featured on the legendary stage as a tremendous honor, adding that sharing his passion for visual art with the audience made the experience especially meaningful.
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