stephanie

kooser

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Artist Biography

Stephanie Kooser is a dynamic interdisciplinary artist recognized for her work across textiles, installations, and large-scale mural art. Rooted in her commitment to community and education, her practice spans fine art creation, public art, and small business ownership. Kooser has made a significant contribution to the public art landscape of Erie, Pennsylvania. Notably, she co-produced a large-scale community mural at Odessa’s Place in the city’s Little Italy Neighborhood, and has completed several public art projects and murals for the Millcreek Township School District. Her profile rose further during the summer of 2023 when she was selected as a lead artist for the inaugural Erie Arts and Culture Views Mural Festival. For the festival, she completed a three-story mural on the facade of the Salvation Army building in downtown Erie, showcasing her ability to transform urban spaces. Kooser's foundational education includes a BFA from the Cleveland Institute of Art in 2006, followed by an MA in Education from Mercyhurst University in 2012. Beyond her studio practice, she is the creative force behind Long Dog Design Co., where she creates custom domestic and fine art textile pieces, alongside commercial mural and sign art. Dedicated to fostering creativity in the next generation, Stephanie Kooser concurrently serves as an elementary school art educator in Erie, PA, balancing her roles as a professional artist, small business owner, and committed educator.

Artist Statement, Mural Making Process, and Art Style(s)

As an interdisciplinary artist, I utilize textiles, installations, and large-scale murals to investigate how art can transform both physical environments and community identity. My practice is driven by a commitment to "living" artwork—pieces that do not merely sit in a gallery but interact with the urban fabric and the people who inhabit it. Rooted in the landscape of Erie, Pennsylvania, my public projects—ranging from community-centered murals in Little Italy to three-story downtown facades—serve as visual landmarks for collective storytelling. By bridging the gap between my professional studio practice at Long Dog Design Co. and my role as a dedicated educator, my goal is to foster a sense of creative agency in the next generation, proving that art is a powerful tool for civic engagement, education, and the revitalization of our shared spaces.

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  • Erie

    Crawford

    Warren

    Mercer

    Venango

    Lawrence

  • Lead Artist

  • Lead Artist

  • Indoors and Outdoors

  • Brick

    Concrete

    Drywall

    Crosswalks

    3D surfaces

  • Paint

    Polytab

  • Experienced

  • Will work alone or with a team

  • N/A