As the sun sets on another incredible year, I want to take a moment to say thank you—truly, from the bottom of my heart. Your support in 2024 meant the world to me and my team. Whether you picked up a sticker, a limited-edition canvas, or just took a moment to enjoy and share my art, it’s all part of this wild, creative ride we’re on together.

🐟 More Than Art—It’s a Conversation One of the best parts of doing what I do is connecting with you all through the art. Over the past year, we’ve shared so many laughs, thoughtful chats, and deep reflections—sometimes all at once. Those conversations, those moments, are what fuel my work. I always say this is a two-way street: I can't do what I love unless you're out there loving it too. So whether we met at a boat show, chatted online, or you’ve been silently cheering me on from afar—thank you. Your support, kindness, and humor shape what I create more than you know. 🚀 Looking Ahead to 2025 I’m super excited about what’s ahead in 2025. There’s some big news on the horizon that I can’t wait to share—once the final details are in place, we’ll be making some announcements that I think you're going to love. In the meantime, my team and I are busy planning another year of art, travel, and connection. As always, we’ll be keeping things fresh with new releases, events, and a few surprises along the way. 🌴 Here’s to a Bold, Bright, and Fish-Filled Year From all of us here at Steve Diossy Art, we’re wishing you health, happiness, creativity, and plenty of good vibes in 2025. Thanks again for being part of this journey—I couldn’t imagine doing this without you. Cheers and Best Fishes for 2025! 🐬🎨 – Steve

This Friday, August 29th, 2025 is officially “Jimmy Buffett Day” in Florida, and I wanted to take a moment to reflect on what Jimmy’s music meant to me—and how it inspired one of my most personal pieces of art. I am happy to be down in Key West to celebrate his life!

🎨 The Story Behind “Margarita Wave”

My piece Margarita Wave was heavily influenced by the music and spirit of Jimmy Buffett. I first sketched the idea back in 2016, but it wasn’t until last year that I returned to it to begin the coloring process.

While working on it, the news broke that Jimmy had passed. Like so many, I was hit hard. His music wasn’t just fun and tropical—it was emotional, comforting, and joyful. As I finished the piece, I decided to add a silhouette of Jimmy in the background, a quiet tribute to a legend who had shaped so much of our coastal lifestyle.

The final touch? I added bubbles surrounding the silhouette. For me, those bubbles represent the spirit of people we’ve lost—rising up, full of lightness, to somewhere higher.

A couple of months later, I learned Jimmy’s posthumous song was titled “Bubbles Up.”
That gave me chills. I hadn’t known about the song during the painting process—it was just one of those moments of deep, unexpected connection.

🌊 The Legacy Lives On

Jimmy Buffett may no longer be with us in person, but his music, joy, and easygoing spirit continue to live on through every sunset sail, cold drink, and song played with the top down and the breeze in your hair.

This one’s for you, Jimmy.
Cheers and bubbles up. 🍹🫧

🎽 Explore the Margarita Wave Collection

If you'd like to carry a piece of this tribute with you, you can find Margarita Wave Shirts now on SteveDiossyClothing.com.

From limited-edition canvas prints to performance tees, the Margarita Wave Collection celebrates the fun, freedom, and warmth that Jimmy brought to so many of us.

What is the difference between a Limited Edition Signed & Numbered piece and an Artist's Proof?

Most reproductions are separated into 3 categories, Artist's Proof (AP), Printer's Proof (PP) and Signed/Numbered Limited Edition Series (SN).

Some artists only offer them in one size, and some artists offer multiple sizes so you can enjoy them in your perfect space.

The artist decides the total number in each edition and will include that on the artwork. I.E. AP 101/200  Once that series sells out, it is no longer able to be reproduced in that size/series edition but may still be available in other Open Edition (OE) prints. 

What is an Artist's Proof?
Artist's Proofs were originally the first to be printed to help seek out any color issues with the new prints. Today, thanks to advances in printing, AP's are often, but not always, offered after the entire edition has been sold out. "AP" is a print made for the artist's personal use, hand highlighted or embellished* and usually in a very limited run (5-10% of the total Limited Edition SN Series.)

What does embellishment mean?

Embellished or highlighting is where the artist hand paints over the print, adding texture and an extra hint of colors throughout the piece. Making each hand embellished piece a one of a kind! Pricing is usually 50% higher and is often reserved for Artist's proof series, but can be added on to any canvas Limited Edition order by request. 

Most of the time, I leave the very rare editions (Artist's and Printer's Proofs) off the site unless the main Limited Series is sold out. You can always inquire as to whether there are any of your favorite sold out series left. 

Feel free to reach out to my team if you have any other questions! 

Cheers + Fishful Thinking, 

Steve + Team

It’s all fins on deck as my team and I gear up for a busy time of year, so I wanted to keep everyone up to date with the latest happenings!

Firstly, thank you all so much for the great response to the piece that Wyland and I have collaborated on! It’s been incredible to work with the maestro of marine art - you can see the work in progress in this video we recorded together.

There have been so many people getting in touch with kind words and asking for more information on the piece – there will be more updates coming in the next few weeks, so make sure you are subscribed on Facebook and Instagram and to register your interest, you can contact my team by emailing info@stevediossy.com

Thank you also to everyone who took part in the recent online auctions; The first auction we had was for a limited-edition 30”x45” Tito’s Cheers. This piece has been sold out for a few years now and is my most-requested sold-out piece. A collector sold his canvas back to us and we made it available through an online auction. My original sketch Costa Rica Wave  also sold via auction on the website - we had a lot of bidders on both pieces and I am very thankful to everyone who got involved! There will be more auctions in the future, and in the meantime, more information on my original artwork is available here

Tito's Cheers (30" x 45" Limited-Edition Canvas)

Costa Rica Wave  (Original Sketch)

My mobile gallery will be rolling into Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show from Wednesday 10/25 to Sunday 10/29. It’s always a great time at FLIBS and I’m extremely grateful to have so many fantastic collectors in South Florida. The booth will be open through the whole show and you can find it right in front of the Bahia Mar Hotel. I’ll be there for some signing sessions throughout the week - keep an eye on Facebook and Instagram as we will announce timings closer to the event! As we are a small team, my Vero Beach gallery hours will vary while FLIBS is running - hours will be updated on Google and Facebook and you can call the gallery on (772) 205 2973 to confirm opening times!

Mobile Gallery Closed...

... and open!

Wyland Collaboration, Auctions, Boat Shows & New Art!

And finally, my latest piece Gator Fishin' is now available on canvas, mini canvas and paper prints - online and in-store! I always like to joke that my artwork is more about us than the animals, so maybe you can see some of your fishing buddies in this one!

🐊 Now Available: Gator Fishin’

My newest piece, Gator Fishin’, is finally here and available as a canvas, mini canvas, and paper print—both online and in the gallery. It’s a fun one, and as I always say: my work is often more about us than the animals, so don’t be surprised if you recognize one of your fishing buddies in there. 😉

💙 Thank You!

I can’t say it enough—thank you for all the continued support, kind messages, and laughs along the way. Whether you’re a longtime collector or just discovering my work, I’m truly grateful to share this creative journey with you.

Until next time—cheers and fishful thinking! 🎣

- Steve

Thank you to everyone who participated in Steve Diossy’s first ever online auction event! 🎉

A huge congratulations to Darin, who secured the winning bid of $2,700 for the coveted "Tito’s Cheers" Limited Edition piece.
This artwork has been sold out for many years, and with a long waiting list of eager collectors, we wanted to create a fair opportunity for everyone to participate—which led to the idea of hosting our very first auction!

🖼️ About the "Tito’s Cheers" Limited Edition

The "Tito’s Cheers" series holds a special place in Steve Diossy’s collection of fine art. Known for its vibrant energy, lively detail, and celebration of friendship, this sold-out piece has been highly sought-after by fans and collectors alike.

Explore more available pieces from the Steve Diossy Fine Art Collection.

🛎️ Auction Highlights

• Over 25 bids placed between September 25th and the final closing moments!

• Bidding came down to the wire, showcasing just how much excitement surrounded this rare release.

• While there were some first-time app hiccups (thanks for your patience!), we're already working on improvements for future auctions to make the experience even smoother.

📽️ Watch the Full Auction Recap Video

Click here to see the full auction video!
(Link to video once ready)

💬 For Collectors with Sold-Out Pieces

If you currently own a sold-out Steve Diossy piece and have questions about valuation, resale options, or future auctions, feel free to reach out to our team at SteveDiossy.com.

We appreciate your loyalty, excitement, and continued support of Steve’s work!

Cheers,
– Steve Diossy and Team

🔗 Quick Links:

• 🎨 Shop Steve Diossy Fine Art

• 🛍️ Shop All Steve Diossy Products

• 📩 Contact the Team

See Full Video Here

To any collectors with a sold out piece, feel free to reach out to my team for options. 
Cheers and thank you all again for your continued support of my art. -Steve

In the works - The Bayview Plaza Concept Plan

Robert Czyszczon, General manager of Plaza Beach Resorts, explained how the collaboration came about: “I had seen Steve’s art in restaurants and his gallery in Vero Beach in 2020, and when I saw his booth at the St. Pete Boat Show in 2022, it hit me that it would be a great theme for our hotels. Steve and his team loved the idea, and the rest is history. We are excited to welcome guests and locals to walk through the rooms and enjoy the lifelike art that Steve creates.”  

        

At the ribbon cutting, Steve Diossy will have his art available for sale from his traveling set up. The event, which will also feature food, an open bar, raffles, room tours and complimentary tattoos, will begin at 5pm at the Bayview Plaza and go through to 8pm.

Official Schedule of Events.

Upon Arrival Check in at Plaza Beach Hotel (4506 Gulf Blvd) for parking passes and entrance bands.

Hi everyone – Steve here!

I’m excited to officially introduce my brand-new shirt website: SteveDiossyClothing.com. If you’ve been wondering why shirts are now on their own separate site, I wanted to share a little behind-the-scenes insight and explain why this change will make your experience even better.

🧵 Why a Separate Website for Shirts?

As a small business, keeping up with the growing demand for apparel has been both exciting and challenging. To help us meet this demand, I’ve partnered with some very good friends of over 20 years, who have been in the apparel business just as long—and have actually been printing my shirts for years.

With their help, we now have a streamlined system where they handle both printing and shipping. That means faster turnaround, better customer service, and a smoother shopping experience for you.

You’ll still get the same awesome shirts you're already used to—just with even more efficiency behind the scenes.

🎽 What to Expect at SteveDiossyClothing.com

• ✅ Performance Shirts – Our fan-favorite moisture-wicking, UV-protected shirts perfect for boating, fishing, and coastal living

• ✅ Cotton Tees – Coming soon! We’re working on expanding our cotton shirt selection with fun, vibrant, and super-soft designs

• ✅ Dedicated Customer Service – With a separate team managing orders, questions will be answered quicker and orders fulfilled faster

We’re committed to keeping the quality high and the process hassle-free.

🙏 Thank You for Supporting the Art (and the Artist)

Whether you’ve picked up a shirt, canvas, decal, or anything in between—thank you.

Your support is what allows me to keep doing what I love: creating marine-inspired art that reflects our love for the ocean, the Florida lifestyle, and (yes) a little bit of humor.

And as always, this isn’t just me—it’s a team effort. I wouldn’t be here without my incredible crew behind the scenes and collectors like you who believe in what we do.

👇 Explore the New Shirt Shop

Check it out and grab your next favorite shirt at
👉 SteveDiossyClothing.com

And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for new designs, gallery events, and artist updates.

☕ Castaway Coffee Partners with CCA Florida to Support Marine Conservation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 Castaway Coffee Partners with Coastal Conservation Association Florida

Portion of sales from coffee will support protecting and enhancing Florida’s marine habitat 

Miami, Fl. – Sept. 18, 2023 – Castaway Coffee has partnered with the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Florida, the state’s leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to marine fisheries conservation, education, and advocacy, and announced that a portion of all coffee sales will be donated in effort to protect Florida’s waterways and fisheries.

 “Our mission is to roast and sell great-tasting coffee. We also think it is important to give back, so for each bag of coffee we sell, we give a portion of sales to help protect our oceans,” said Laura M. Sixto, co-founder and Conservation Coordinator for Castaway Coffee. “We strongly believe in the work of the Coastal Conservation Association Florida to help conserve, promote and enhance the present and future availability of coastal resources.”

 Castaway Coffee’s co-founder, marine artist Steve Diossy, has helped raise millions of dollars for oceanographic research, conservation, and education by designing the “Protect Wild Dolphins” and “Protect Marine Wildlife” license plates for the state of Florida. To properly portray the coastal lifestyle, Castaway Coffee has designed their packaging utilizing Steve’s unique and whimsical artistic style.

 “It’s always more about us than the fish. I feel we are all fish out of water. As anyone who grew up in Florida knows, we all love being in and around the water and that’s definitely where I’m happiest,” Steve Diossy said describing his art.

 Castaway Coffee will donate a portion from each bag of coffee sold to CCA Florida. Castaway Coffee is also a member of the 1% for the Planet initiative, which reinforces their commitment to their community, customers, and the planet.

Founded by Felipe and Laura Sixto and Steve Diossy, the Castaway Coffee team came together to create a brand that reflects their love for great coffee and all things marine. Castaway Coffee focuses on direct-to-consumer sales and plans distribution to specialty grocers and specialty retailers in 2024. For more information about Castaway Coffee, visit castawaycoffee.com. Follow on Instagram and Facebook, for updates and join the movement towards ocean conservation one bag of coffee at a time.

Shop CastawayCoffee.com

The Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) was founded in 1977 after drastic commercial overfishing along the Texas coast decimated redfish and speckled trout populations. One of 19 state chapters, CCA Florida became the fifth state chapter in 1985. A 501(c)3 non-profit, the purpose of CCA is to advise and educate the public on conservation of marine resources. Through habitat restoration projects, water quality initiatives and fisheries advocacy, CCA Florida works with its over 18,000 members including recreational anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to conserve and enhance marine resources and coastal environments. Join the conversation on Facebook or learn more at ccaflorida.org.

Hi everyone! We have received a lot of messages and photos from you with your new plates! I am very excited to hear that the plates are being distributed to DMV's across Florida. I spoke to my contact in Vero Beach and they have plates in the main office! Since they are actively distributing the plates throughout the state we haven't made a big announcement yet. We want to make sure they are fully distributed first.

**UPDATE December 2, 2022**

Florida's "Protect Marine Wildlife" specialty license plate update! TGIF! A very good day to say the least. After a year of working on this plate, I just received the third proof and I am incredibly happy with how it looks. I am giving it my signature of approval and sending it right back to Tallahassee so it can go into the next phase of production and distribution. The person in charge said it would take another 4-5 months before the plates were distributed throughout all the tax collectors’ offices in Florida. I wish this process was faster as I can't wait to put this on my car. Thank you to everyone that ordered it! I will keep you all updated with any new information I receive. Have a wonderful weekend! -Steve

 Head over to my Facebook or Instagram Page for the full video update! (@stevediossymarineartist IG: @Steve_diossy_art)

**UPDATE - October 2022*

I just wanted to update everyone on the progress of the plate:

The good people at 3M who are in charge of the printing of the license plate have been working directly with me to make sure the final result looks the best it possibly can. There are limitations with the printing technology which make the color scheme a little tricky to get right immediately. Over the past two months we have been going back and forth trying to get the colors exactly right. So far I've received two physical samples and, even though they are both close, I want to make sure you receive the best version possible. I am currently working with 3M on a third revision which should take care of the concerns I had on the first two proofs.

Once I approve the plate, it will hopefully be in circulation for decades to come so I would rather spend a little extra time now to make sure the plate looks the best it can for everyone who has supported it and also to do justice to the cause that it was intended for.

I appreciate that the wait is frustrating and, believe me, I am not taking these revisions lightly. Please know that I am doing everything in my power to give you the best possible result. I can't wait to get over all the design hurdles and announce the distribution of the plate throughout Florida. As soon as this happens I will let everyone know. Thank you all again for your patience!

-Steve Diossy

_________________________________________________________________________

-Steve

Shark Father's News

.

 

Hey there, flock-star!
It’s your favorite flamingo with a twist—Dirty Flamingo—here to spill the martini on what’s going down this October in the world of Steve Diossy Art. Grab your olive (or two), and let’s flamingle through the latest updates, events, and exclusive signings.

There’ll be light snacks and refreshments including something I'm partial to - a "Fish Whistle"!

The label for “Fish Whistle” beer was designed by our very own (yes, you’ve guessed it) Steve Diossy and is available at Sailfish Brewing Company - We'll have some available for you to try at the signings!

It’s always a great time at FLIBS and we love catching up with our collectors as well as introducing Steve’s art to new fans!

• Wednesday 10/26 from 1- 3pm
• Saturday 10/29 from 1- 4pm
• Sunday 10/30 11am – 2pm

For all the latest on signings, new releases  you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

🦈 Mr. Wonderful Meets Marine Art: A Steve Diossy x Transparent Artist Collaboration

When art meets entrepreneurship, big things happen—especially when it involves a “shark.”

We’re thrilled to announce a one-of-a-kind collaboration between marine artist Steve Diossy and Josh Leidolf, also known as The Transparent Artist, featuring none other than Shark Tank’s iconic investor himself: Kevin O’Leary—Mr. Wonderful.

🎨 A Fusion of Art, Finance, and Fun

This bold and brilliant collaboration brings together two unique creative voices—Diossy’s coastal, character-driven marine art and Leidolf’s bold pop and street art style—to create a visual tribute that’s both fun and formidable. And when the subject is a real-life shark in the business world, you know it’s going to be unforgettable.

Kevin O’Leary, known for his no-nonsense advice and razor-sharp investing sense, gets the full Diossy/Leidolf treatment in this piece—a vibrant mix of satire, bold colors, and clever symbolism that only these two artists could pull off.

🧠 About the Artists

🐬 Steve Diossy

Known for his humorous, coastal-inspired artwork, Steve’s marine life scenes blend the absurd with the everyday. His fans range from boat show collectors to everyday beach lovers who appreciate his clever take on life underwater (and above the bar).

Explore his limited-edition work at SteveDiossy.com.

🖌️ Josh Leidolf – The Transparent Artist

With a bold, expressive style and a knack for cultural commentary, Josh brings a modern pop edge to fine art. His work has gained national attention for its blend of transparency (literally) and punchy personality.

Follow Josh on Instagram.

🔥 Why This Piece Stands Out

This collaboration captures the energy of the Shark Tank boardroom and the vibrancy of coastal art culture. The piece includes:

• A sharp and satirical portrayal of Kevin O’Leary

• Rich marine symbolism, nodding to Diossy’s ocean-loving roots

• Iconic visual cues from the world of finance, entrepreneurship, and Shark Tank

Whether you’re a collector, entrepreneur, or art lover—this piece is an instant conversation starter.

💬 Stay Tuned for Release Info

Interested in owning a piece of this collaboration? Sign up for email updates at SteveDiossy.com and follow both artists on social media for first looks, limited drops, and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks.

If you’ve ever looked at one of my pieces and thought, “This feels like a family gathering underwater”—you’re not wrong. In fact, Give and Take is exactly that: my version of a family portrait.

It’s a colorful, chaotic blend of personalities you’ll recognize from your own crew—whether you’re related by blood, friendship, or fish tales. Every character in this underwater scene has a role, a backstory, and a whole lot of attitude.

🎣 A Fin-Tastic Family Table

At the center of Give and Take is a black marlin—the head of the family, no question. Some people have compared the composition to The Last Supper, and while that wasn’t intentional, I can totally see it now. The marlin sits confidently, fins spread like arms at a table, commanding attention.

Right beside him is the ever-busy octopus, his right-hand…er…tentacle-man. He’s multitasking, naturally—giving and taking drinks, passing a beer to the mako shark, who I imagine is the family’s bold voice. The mako’s even got a baby shark hitching a ride on his back and another baby fish on a seaweed leash held by a dutiful angel fish.

🐢 Characters with Character

The sea turtle, off to the side, is the classic nurturing type—watching over the little ones with big, loving eyes. Above the turtle is the mahi, who, let's be honest, knows they’re the best-looking fish in the school. They’re caught mid-selfie, cocktail in hand (yes, that’s a dirty martini with blue cheese-stuffed olives).

But the octopus isn’t letting things get too out of hand—he’s sneaking that martini away, keeping the mahi from getting too full of themselves.

Above them all is a polo-playing seahorse, the athletic one in the family who drinks red wine and doesn’t take flack from anyone. She’s giving a blowfish a solid bop, protecting the crew from bad vibes.

🦀 Laughs & Layers Below the Surface

Near the bottom, there’s a “stoned” crab lounging with a trio of clown fish who are, let’s say, enjoying some seaweed. Each one’s in a different stage—puffy-eyed, laughing, and chill. The octopus lends a helping hand again, passing over some fresh water. (She’s clearly the responsible one in the group.)

👼 Symbols of Spirit

On the right, a flying fish with a halo hovers above, reaching toward the baby shark. That fish is a tribute to a close friend I lost—someone who still feels very present. It's my nod to the loved ones we’ve said goodbye to but still feel with us. Just above, an angel fish with a halo (and a tiny pair of horns) reminds us that no one’s truly perfect—we all have a little light and dark inside.

🎣 Meanwhile… on the Surface

Up in the top right corner, three fishermen are having the classic fishing experience: full of hope, excitement, and a touch of bad luck. With the help of a dolphin, mahi, and sailfish, they think they’ve landed something big. What they really get? A tire. The fish stole the bait and gave back some good old-fashioned disappointment. Been there.

I always enjoy imagining what’s happening just before and after these scenes. That’s part of the fun—these aren't just fish, they’re characters living out familiar stories.

🎨 Want to Own a Piece of the Story?

Give and Take is available as a limited-edition canvas print and paper print. Whether you’re the martini-sipping mahi or the octopus who holds it all together, there’s a little bit of everyone in this piece.

👉 Shop Give and Take Now

Taking the plunge and starting my own company wasn’t something I planned. It came about by trying to turn a career setback into a new opportunity.

I was working at Morning Star Screen Print and New Wave Designs still but I felt I was starting to hit a glass ceiling in terms of creativity. I started looking for other opportunities. In 2000, a friend from school - Jason - asked me if I wanted to start working for the internet company that he was a part of. The site we worked on was called “Meta Tiki” and it was all about becoming a local in a city you were visiting. They had these “Tiki Masters” in different cities and they would be the local guide in the town you were visiting. This was internet 1.0 - long before social media and I knew Meta Tiki was a great idea.

 Meta Tiki - Internet 1.0

My job there was to design the art and cartoons on this site for these humorous blogs. It was great because I was able to get so much experience using flash animation and working on websites. I had to create all these funny cartoon characters that went along with the blogs. This was also my first experience going to fairs and events for promotions like we do now at boat shows.

Two thumbs up: Promoting Meta Tiki

The company kept growing – we were right on the cusp of the internet bubble… and then that bubble burst. Almost overnight the company cut the task force. We went from 40 employees to 20 then just after that to 4. I didn’t make the second cut.

It was a punch in the gut to lose such a great job, but that disappointment soon turned to excitement. I had already taken on a couple of freelance gigs on the side and I decided this was my chance to see if I could make it as a freelancer. I’ve been working for myself ever since.

My rule at the start was that I would never say no to a job. I took every opportunity that came my way; Airbrushing surfboards, designing t-shirts, building websites, flash animation, photoshop. The hard work I had put into learning all of these skills was definitely paying off.  I was working for anybody and everybody. I was always working on everybody else’s ideas but I had a lot of ideas of my own that I wanted to get out there. I started wondering what it would take to make a living creating my own artwork. 

In 2009, I had the idea for an edgy t-shirt brand that was ultimately called Hooked Carpe Diem. I was wary of getting into t-shirts because I knew how crowded that market was but we had a great little team together and a rep who got us into 40 or 50 stores within a few months. Hooked Carpe Diem was inspired by the tattoo-style art of brands like Affliction, but it reflected the Florida coastal lifestyle. I was really proud of the brand and what was achieved, but it was a different dynamic working with partners and I felt like I wasn’t using my humorous art style enough - that wasn’t really what Hooked Carpe Diem was about. In 2010 I moved on from H.C.D. and haven't had any affiliation with the brand since then but it was an important experience in my career and what I learned from it definitely helped me start my next venture.

I knew I had these crazy ideas for marine art. I wanted to start something more expressive – something I was inspired by and that used my creativity more. That’s when I first came up with the name “Ofishulz” – the company that is now called “Steve Diossy Marine Artist”. I thought it could just be a simple boat wrap graphics company but it ended up being a lot more than that…

Tito’s Cheers came about after making a connection with someone who worked for Tito’s Homemade Vodka. We wanted to do a piece that incorporated the Tito’s bottle and I originally thought I could just put the bottle in my first piece - Raw Bar. Once Tito’s corporate saw it they said they didn’t want to promote reckless or irresponsible drinking. It's not like the characters in Tito’s Cheers look a lot more responsible, but I suppose they’re not crushing or piercing the cans like they are in Raw Bar. That led to me creating a new piece that would be done exclusively for Tito’s. 

Just after I started sketching out Tito’s Cheers, we were invited to meet Tito himself when he was up for an event in Orlando. The only problem was that the sketch was so rough. My buddy Scotty drove us up to the event and I was furiously trying to complete the sketch in the car. We arrived and spoke to Tito for 10 or 15 minutes – he was such a nice guy. We showed him what I had done of the sketch which he loved, and he signed off on it. We have the original pen and ink drawing with Tito’s signature on it. As a little ode to him, I took his signature and hid it in the color piece – Look under the “Vo” of “Vodka” on the bottle  and you’ll see his “Cheers Tito Beveridge” signature underneath it, written in orange.

(L-R: Scotty, Tito, Steve) 

Just like Raw Bar this piece represents my friends. All the drinks are Tito’s-based, of course. I wanted to match the drinks with the characters. The sailfish is a billfish so I had to put some olives on a plastic sword in his dirty martini - the sword represents his bill. The mad mahi is a little rough around the edges so I had to give him a cigar and a Tito’s on the rocks. That mahi is pretty beat up – he’s got a hook through his eyebrow from nearly being caught by a fisherman. He’s also had a chunk taken out of his dorsal fin; I imagine he’s a little upset with his shark buddy. I picture the two of them being in one of those drunken bar fights we all had back in the day, and the shark taking a bite of him.

To the right of the mahi there's a red snapper. I’ve caught a few red snappers when I’ve been off shore fishing. I thought he’d be a fun one to give a Tito’s and cranberry to match his colors. Right in front of him is the blue crab who is one of the most popular characters in my art and now he’s become a standalone star. I always knew he'd be a big shot – that’s why he’s got a big shot of vodka in his claw. He’s the one saying “Cheers!” to everybody in this piece. The blue crab has a little hermit crab as a pet on a seaweed leash – the hermit is taking a little vodka shot.

The great white shark is drinking a Bloody Mary because of course he is – what else is he going to be drinking? He’s got the works in there; the shrimp cocktail and the celery. The octopus is putting an arm around the shark’s drink. He’s also got a tentacle going towards the crab’s shot as well as going for the bottle of Tito’s and the sailfish’s dirty martini. Basically, he’s trying to get everyone’s drinks, but he also has his own in a plastic cup. I consider him the party animal of the group. He’s got a plastic cup because he’s a little dangerous after a few too many drinks.

Just to the left of the octopus's cup there's the clownfish. This was the first time I put a clownfish in my art. Hes not in the original pen and ink sketch after putting the color in, I saw that there wasn’t any orange. The only orange fish I could think of was the clownfish. After I put him in there, I realized he’s the perfect fish to use in my painting. He became a staple in my pieces. He's not in all of them but I try and put him in whenever I can. Even though he originally came about just because I wanted to balance the colors, he now represents the humor in the artwork. Sometimes he even has a clown nose.

The clam in the bottom left is inspired by a viral video from a few years ago – there was a video of a clam on a kitchen table and it looked like his tongue was coming out of the shell to lick the salt on the table. I wanted to make it so that he’s licking up the vodka that was spilled – probably from the sailfish above him. The eel is just really annoyed because he’s trying to get a drink but everyone’s ignoring him. Any time I put an eel in a piece, he’s sneaking in from behind and trying to get into the party. As for the wide-eyed seahorse… Well, there are always some allusions and some irreverence in my art so if you look really closely at the expression on the seahorse’s face… I’ll leave that up to your interpretation.

Of course, even though it’s my art, this is just how I see it. It's always open to interpretation. I always love hearing how people can understand the characters as their specific friends and what they think is going on in the piece. It’s great that people can interpret it in so many ways.  

🍸 More Than Just a Party

Like all of my art, Tito’s Cheers is full of layered storytelling. Every element—from the drinks to the expressions—has a deeper meaning. But at the end of the day, it’s open to interpretation.

One of my favorite things is hearing how fans see their own friends or personalities in the characters. Maybe you’re the party octopus, or maybe you’re the silent-but-salty eel just trying to get noticed.

🖼 Want Your Own Copy of Tito’s Cheers?

Tito’s Cheers is available as a limited-edition giclée on canvas, paper prints and apparel.

👉 Click here to shop the collection

Throughout my career I’ve had to prove myself to people who have given me opportunities. I started my art career painting surfboards for Eric and Melanie Swanson. They were taking a chance on an unproven kid, and it was a steep learning curve for me. The first surfboard I designed took me eight hours from start to finish  - I didn’t understand the complexity of drawing a design and cutting it out with a razor. I took so much time to draw a really intricate design on the board and then found out the hard way that the cutting took about 20 times longer than the drawing. As the boards became more popular, I started working more and more – sometimes all through the night. It was great to be a working artist but it was only paying me $5-10 an hour.

One customer who would stop by the surf shop every so often was a friend of my bosses. His name was Buddy Brown and he worked for Morning Star Screen Print and New Wave Designs in Vero Beach. He’d seen my art and asked me if I’d ever done any screen printing or created any art on a computer. I hadn’t, but I told him I’d be willing to learn. Buddy put a lot of trust in me - he hired me knowing that I’d still have a long way to go. I learned as much as I could about graphic design and using Photoshop – This would have been about 25 years ago so at the time it was Photoshop 3.

Working for Morning Star was a great experience – it seemed like they worked with every company in the area, screen printing, creating logo and t-shirt designs. When I started at Morning Star, they took up a quarter of the building they were in and had a job board of 5 to 10 jobs. A few years later they had taken over the whole building and the job board had 30 to 40 jobs at any one time. At this point I was five years into my career and between the screen printing and the surfboard design, I was able to make a decent living from being an artist. 

Two customers at Morning Star – Steve McCulloch and Marilyn Mazzoil – initially came in for some t-shirt designs, but they became regular customers and friends of mine. They both worked for the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute. One time they came to see me, I was talking to Steve about surfing, and showed him a surfboard I was working on which had a dolphin design on it. Steve mentioned that the Oceanographic Institute was thinking about creating a Protect Wild Dolphins license plate for the state of Florida and asked me if I wanted to create the design for it. I saw this as a real opportunity and knew I had to dedicate a lot of time to it, so I asked Buddy for some time off, which he was kind enough to give me.

When I was thinking of what to draw for the plate, I couldn’t help but think back to when I was on the beach, trying to figure out how to make a living in art and then seeing the dolphin jump out of the water. That moment was my inspiration for the art you see on the license plate. I created a prototype and Steve and Marilyn were really happy with it. They started a long and arduous application process to get the plate made.

Creating the design took me about a year and a half. Although it isn’t a complicated piece of artwork, it was more of a technical challenge. I even flew up to 3M in Minnesota to make sure they were able to produce the image exactly how I wanted it, getting the balance of the colors right. The Protect Wild Dolphins plate became available to buy in 1998 and quickly became the biggest-selling plate in Florida. The last I’d heard it had raised over $20 million for marine mammal research, although that was a few years ago so I’m sure it has raised even more by now. Although I didn’t get paid for the license plate, I always say that doing it paid me in opportunities – it opened the door for me and gave me the chance to collaborate with Wyland and Guy Harvey on the Florida license plates they designed too.

You always need people to support you as an artist. I’ve been lucky that people gave me opportunities and I’ve always worked my hardest to repay their faith in me.  

Art was always a part of my life. When I was young, I dreamed about being an artist but as I got older, I realized I didn’t quite know how to make it happen. I heard that being an architect was one way to make a living with art, but then I learned there was a technical side with math and data and I wanted to be more creative than that.

I always worked on artsy things in High School – designing sets for school plays and taking art electives at any opportunity. I had a really influential teacher in school called Mr. Walker. In his class, I made a sculpture of Michelangelo’s The Florentine Pietà which he entered into a competition for me – I ended up winning that competition and getting presidential recognition for it. That made me think about becoming a sculptor or ceramicist. The limiting factor for that was that I had these crazy ideas and wild drawings I wanted to create and I didn’t think they’d be very effective as sculptures.

When I was 19, I started taking an oil painting class at Center for the Arts at the Vero Beach Art Museum. These classes were a perfect escape from everything else going on in my life - all I had to do for three hours was focus on my art. At that time, I was working two part-time jobs in restaurants, and taking an initial 2-year college degree. I’d been working in restaurants since I was 14 years-old and at this stage, with 5 years’ work experience, I realized that I could push ahead with a more conventional living and make money, or I could make a little less money and be a lot happier by pursuing being an artist. I just still wasn’t sure how I could make that happen. 

Before my class one week, I was at the beach staring out at the sea, thinking about what to do – I knew I wasn’t in a position to be able to go to art school like some of my friends had done, but I was just praying and contemplating life, when I saw a dolphin jump up out of the ocean. I’ve always loved dolphins and had an affinity for them. It felt like a really significant moment for me. I went to my art class and as I was walking into the classroom, my teacher, Glenda Taylor, mentioned to me a local surf shop was looking for artists to design their surfboards. I told her I’d have to miss that week’s class.

I went straight to the surf shop – they were closed but I saw the lights were still on, so I started knocking on the door. Melanie, the owner, came to the door and told me they were closed. I explained how my teacher had mentioned about them looking for an artist, she told me to come back the next day. The next day, I met with Melanie and her husband Eric Swanson and showed them some of my art. They asked if I had any experience with airbrushing - I didn't but I was determined to show them I was a quick learner. They told me to get some experience airbrushing and come back in two weeks. I bought an airbrush gun and some stencils and practiced like hell. Two weeks later I went back and showed them what I’d done and they gave me my first job in art. I’ve been able to call myself a professional artist ever since. 

More from Steve next week… 

The story behind Raw Bar

Raw Bar was the first piece I created for my own brand back in 2002. It was inspired by some of my wild friends and the shenanigans we would get into when we went out drinking. We would get down to the Keys for some nights out or go on cruises. "Raw Bar" is particularly inspired by the Florida Keys. Growing up in Florida I’ve always considered myself a fish. I thought it was funny – we are in the water like fish but also drinking like fish.

When I thought about how a marlin would drink – he has to be shotgunning it by piercing it with his bill. The crab too – when you think about how he would have to hold it with his claws, it makes sense that he would be chugging it.

I always say this piece represents my friends and me which is true, but it isn’t necessarily one character representing one friend - they are all mixtures. I often get asked which fish I am in the art, and it honestly depends on the day, but I think – as my drink of choice is a Tito's and cranberry - I’m closest to the grouper in this one. 

Hello to all you brewtiful people out there! Thanks for taking the hopportunity to check in with the latest news from Crabeer USA and Steve Diossy Art.

February flew by in the clink of an eye, but March is packed with exciting events, fresh merch, and a few important updates—so let’s dive right in.

***UPDATE 3/13/20: We are sorry to announce that events after March 15th have been postponed or cancelled. Palm Beach International Boat Show has been rescheduled to May 14-17 2020.  Official Merchandise is now for sale online. 
 In the meantime, we will be updating Steve's online store to honor "show pricing" for our awesome collectors who won't be able to meet Steve in person this month with more delivery options in Florida. Stay safe, wash your fins and please stay tuned for updates with rescheduled dates. ***

Hello all you brewtiful people! Thanks for using this hopportunity to check out my blog! February went by the in the clink of an eye but we’ve got plenty of exciting news for you this month!

If you’re looking for a way to krill some time, we’ve got the Marathon…*gulp*… Seafood Festival coming up on March 14th and 15th. It’s our only visit to the Florida Keys this year. If you get down there, be sure to try the lobster… or the shrimp… or hotdogs - anything but crab!

The weekend after that, we will be at Reggae Rise Up Festival in St. Petersburg. It’s going to be super busy down there and we are looking forward to this new show. If you’re a fan of reggae, don’t be a hermit - come out of your shell and check it out! Remember, if you’re going to have a few drinks there - don’t drive! Always catch a taxi crab home. Not a problem for me. I always use the sidewalk…

From Thursday March 26th to Sunday March 29th we will be at Palm Beach International Boat Show. Steve is the official artist of the show so you’ll be seeing a lot of his work there - from the program to the cups at the bars! It’s always great to meet so many old and new fans of Steve’s work at this show. It’s fun time - you can’t be crabby there - everyone’s in a good mood at Palm Beach International Boat Show!

🥤 New Tervis Designs & Website Updates

Over on our online store, we’ve got three brand new Tervis designs now available:

• Board Meeting

• Last Call

• Mad Mahi

And guess what? You can finally get Crabeer himself on canvas and paper prints. Steve captured my good side—enjoying my favorite activity: kicking back with a cold brew!

We’ve also made the Crabeer website more e-fish-ent than ever. Faster load times, smoother navigation, and easier checkout mean more time enjoying your favorite art and less time waiting.

🍻 Cheers to March, Merch & Marine Life

Thanks again for all the continued support, even as plans change. We’re doing our best to bring you the best of Steve Diossy’s art, Crabeer USA gear, and some serious sea-sonal humor to keep you smiling.

Stay safe, stay salty, and remember:
Don’t be shellfish—share the stoke.
– Crabeer & The Team 🦀🎨

We also updated the website so the next time you buy a great shirt, you’ll find the site is more e-fish-ent! It all makes for smoother surfing

Hey art fans, wave riders, and salty souls—welcome to the February edition of the Bus Shark Blog!

Thanks for paddling your way over here. February is jam-packed with shows, events, and new art releases, and we’re stoked to share the journey with you. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time collector, this month is full of opportunities to catch Steve Diossy and the Marine Machine in action.

We don’t have to take our cloves off to have a good time at The South Florida Garlic Festival in Lake Worth. That’s on Saturday Feb 8th to Sunday Feb 9th. Perfect for anyone looking to get rid of any vampires! A weekend full of fantastic food, groovy music and bad breath.

After that it’s the Miami Yacht Show (NB: NOT the Miami Boat show... even though they're on the same weekend) from Wednesday February 12th through Sunday February 16th. The Friday of that show is Valentine’s day. Art is such a great gift for that special person in your life. Or a yacht. Or both… Either way they’re both available at the yacht show! 

We will be at the Jupiter Seafood Festival on February 23rd and 24th for another awesome weekend of great food and music. Just don’t eat the the clownfish there… they taste funny.

Then at the end of the month, we are going to be migrating north for our first time at Atlantic City Boat Show. A chance for us to visit our friends in New Jersey! Thats from February 26th to March 1st. Usually I take a trip to Gnashville around this time of year, but I guess I can make an exception for such a great show.

On the web store - we have new Tervis designs available for pre-order and they look… JAWSOME! We have Last Call, Board Meeting and the Black and Silver Mad Mahi available for pre-order now.

And last but not least, Steve’s new mobile gallery is nearly fin-ished. We’ll be updating the Facebook and Instagram pages with how Marine Machine 2.0 is coming along, and we will have it on the road this month!

Take it easy, guys! I’m off to hang 2 and ride those waves all the way to the other tide!

🌴 See You on the Road!

We’re so pumped for this month’s lineup of shows and can’t wait to meet more of you in person. Be sure to follow us on social for the latest updates, live event coverage, and behind-the-scenes content. As always—thank you for your support, good vibes, and fin-tastic energy.

Until next time... Hang 2 and ride the tide!
—The Steve Diossy Team

🎣 Mad Mahi’s January News: 2020 Vision, Stuart Boat Show & What’s Next

Hey fish fans – it’s me, your favorite finned firecracker, the Mad Mahi. You’ve probably wondered: What made me so mad? Let’s just say I’ve had a few too many close calls. Hooks, lines, and near sinkers—but I always escape. Now it’s my turn to drop you a line and reel you in with what’s coming in 2020.

🚤 Catch Us at the Stuart Boat Show – January 10–12

We’re kicking off the new year with a splash at the Stuart Boat Show from January 10th–12th. Steve Diossy will be there signing art, talking fins, and showing off his wacky, wonderful marine creations.

Keep an eye out for the Marine Machine Mach 2, the brand-new mobile gallery setup rolling out at future shows. Trust me, it’s got more style than a swordfish in sunglasses.

Want the inside scoop on upcoming events and releases? Don’t forget to join our mailing list!

🧃 New Tervis Designs Are Swimming Your Way

Word on the reef is that new Tervis tumblers are launching soon—and guess who might be featured on one? (Hint: it’s me. Again.) Steve has dolphinitely captured my softer side this time... or maybe I’m still as mad as ever. Either way, I can’t wait to get my fins on them.

👉 Check out the Tervis Collection to see the current lineup and be ready when the new ones drop!

🙌 Thank You for an Amazing 2019

Steve asked me to send a huge thank you to all of you who supported him this past year—whether you bought a canvas, a performance shirt, or even just shared a post or sent a message.

It’s been a fin-tastic ride, and there are big things coming in 2020. From new art drops and apparel to more shows across Florida and beyond—this is the year to stay hooked.

🌊 Mad Mahi’s Resolution?

Avoid dry January by staying underwater, of course. I like being online, but not on lines. So I’ll be on the net, but not in the nets, if you catch my drift.

🎆 Wishing You the Best Fishes for 2020

New year, new waves, and the same wild sea life you know and love.
Stay salty, stay safe, and don’t forget—you’re always one cast away from something amazing.

🐟 Cheers from the reef,
– Mad Mahi

🐙 Octopus the Connoisseur’s November Update: New Shirts, Shows & Suckers

Well, hello there, you two-tentacled treats!

It’s your cultured cephalopod, Octopus the Connoisseur, back from a whirlpool of wine, wordplay, and fine art. Apologies for the radio silence—I’ve been deep in the depths with my Octoposse. Catching up with old friends is always a delight, even if it’s getting harder to tell them apart… they all look itentacle these days.

Now, pour yourself a glass (or eight like me 🐙🍷) and let’s dive into what’s kraken this November with Steve Diossy Art.

👕 New Shirt Designs Have Surfaced

There are some brand new shirt designs available now on SteveDiossyClothing.com:

• 🐠 Keep Your Friends Close and Anemones Closer – A pun-packed favorite for underwater introverts.

• 🦀 Crabeer USA – A tribute to your favorite crustacean with a taste for craft beer.

I’d love to wear one myself… but finding eight sleeves in my size is impossible. Don’t worry, more tee designs are on the way soon, so keep your monocle polished and ready.

🖼️ New Canvas Releases Coming Soon

While we’ve got a couple of new canvas pieces swimming to the website soon, the best place to experience Steve’s art is always at the shows. Seeing the vibrant colors and hidden jokes in person is truly an ink-redible experience.

🦐 Past & Upcoming Events

✅ Sponge Docks Seafood Festival – Tarpon Springs (Nov 8–10)

We just wrapped up a fin-tastic weekend at the Sponge Docks Seafood Festival. Amazing people, perfect weather, and seafood so good even I considered eating one of my cousins. (Just kidding, probably.)

🏖️ Next Stop: Fort Myers Beach Sand Sculpting Championship (Nov 22–Dec 1)

You haven’t seen real talent until you’ve seen someone sculpt an octopus out of sand—with only two arms! We'll be at the American Sand Sculpting Championship all 10 days, with Steve Diossy signing art on weekends. This event is one of our favorites—equal parts art and beach party.

💸 Black Friday Sale Ink-coming…

Ready your octo-purse—we’ve got some tentacle-tickling deals coming for Black Friday. Rumor has it the savings might begin a bit early this year, but you didn’t hear that from me. 🦑

👉 Be sure to join the newsletter to get early access and exclusive discounts delivered straight to your inbox.

🐙 Time to Drift Off…

Well, that’s all from me. This ink-slinger is off for a post-merlot nap on the seabed. Hopefully you enjoyed the update, and if not… eighters gonna eight.

Until next time,
– Octopus the Connoisseur
(Now available in paperbacks and fish tanks near you.)

🐟 Old Salty’s October Update: Art Shows, New Releases & Raw Bar Tales

Ahoy there, land-walkers!
It’s your favorite sea-soused sailor, Old Salty, reporting live from Diossy Towers. The fellas down at the Raw Bar said I should trade the beer for a blog post—so here I am, tapping these fish fingers across the keyboard to give you the freshest scoop this side of the reef.

🎨 New Art Just Landed: Shark Bus, Give & Take, and Moon Dance

It’s been a busy summer for Steve Diossy, and he’s rolling into fall with three new art releases you have to check out:

• 🦈 Shark Bus – Where fishy passengers and wild wheels collide

• 🐠 Give and Take – A comical tug-of-war in true Diossy fashion

• 🌕 Moon Dance – Whimsical, romantic, and 100% coastal cool

Each piece is packed with Steve’s trademark detail, marine humor, and hidden gems. You’ll find descriptions and stories behind the artwork on the website soon, so keep an eye out.

(And yes, I know what you’re thinking… They’re all stunning. But Old Salty’s still the most handsome catch of the day—Gill-ty as charged.)

📍 Where to Catch Steve This Month

If you want to experience Steve Diossy’s art in all its glorious color, the best way is to see it in person. Here’s where you can find him in October:

• 🍻 Oktoberfest at Sailfish Brewing Co. – October 12
  Local brews + art = my kind of party

• 🎣 Coastal Conservation Association Banquet – October 11, Fort Lauderdale
  Steve is the official artist of the event and will be mingling with the saltwater crowd

• 🚤 Tampa Boat Show – October 25–27
  One of Florida’s best shows for boat lovers and art collectors alike

• 🌴 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) – Oct 30 to Nov 3
  Look for Steve at his booth, where he’ll be signing and showcasing his wildest work yet

👉 You can always check his event schedule here for exact signing times.

🍳 Sneak Peek: “Cereal Killer” Original Coming Soon

Steve’s been pouring his heart (and a bit of milk) into his next big original: “Cereal Killer.” You can catch a glimpse of the creative process now on Instagram and Facebook.

This is one of his most intricate and playful pieces yet—so if you’re in the market for an original, this is a reel oppor-tuna-ty.

👕 New Shirt Designs Surfacing Soon…

Word around the reef is that there are fresh shirt designs dropping soon at SteveDiossyClothing.com. While I can’t say too much (they’ve threatened to take away my bar tab), let’s just say you’ll want to keep your good eye on the site.

🐚 Me? I’ll Be at the Raw Bar…

While Steve’s out slingin' art across Florida, I’ll be staying close to the reef with a cold one at the Raw Bar, listening to shrimp gossip and arguing with seagulls. If you see me there, mine’s a cold one—and the first round’s on you!

Until next tide,
– Old Salty

🎨 Time-Lapse of “Fish n’ Chips” by Steve Diossy

Watch the Art Come to Life—From Blank Canvas to Coastal Chaos

“Fish n’ Chips” is one of those pieces that perfectly captures the heart of Steve Diossy’s work—humorous, vibrant, and packed with personality. Originally painted in oil on a 28" x 32" canvas, this underwater scene combines the best of what Steve does: color, comedy, and character-driven storytelling.

In this special time-lapse video, you can watch the entire process unfold—from blank canvas to completed masterpiece. Every brushstroke reveals more detail, more expression, and more of the marine madness that fans have come to love.

🐟 What’s the Story Behind “Fish n’ Chips”?

In true Diossy fashion, Fish n’ Chips is a clever visual pun. It features an all-star cast of undersea characters gathered around a classic fish and chips setup—except the “chips” might be poker chips, potato chips, or something a bit more mischievous depending on how you interpret it.

As always, Steve’s signature humor is on full display:

• Playful facial expressions

• Unexpected character cameos

• Intricate details and storytelling layers that keep viewers coming back for more

This piece not only showcases Steve’s artistic talent, but also his ability to blend fine art with lighthearted coastal fun.

🛒 Available Now: Fish n’ Chips Art & Products

Love what you see? You can bring Fish n’ Chips into your home (or onto your gear) in a variety of formats:

🖼️ Fine Art Paper Prints – From $35

Printed on high-density archival watercolor paper
Available sizes: 11" x 17" and 18" x 24"
Museum-quality open edition reproductions

🖌️ Limited Edition Canvas – From $375

Signed and hand-numbered (limited to 525)
Giclée on canvas with archival inks
Gallery wrapped – ready to hang

🧱 Lobster Trap Framed Mini-Canvas – $149

Authentic lobster trap wood from the Florida Keys
Hand signed and ready to hang
Perfect for collectors and beach house décor

☕ Fish n’ Chips Mug – $24.95 (Sold Out)]

A big 15oz ceramic mug featuring the artwork
Pairs perfectly with your morning Castaway Coffee

📱 Fish n’ Chips Tough Phone Case – $35

Durable, on-demand printed phone case
Perfect for ocean lovers who want to stand out

📹 Watch the Time-Lapse

👉 Click here to watch the full time-lapse video and experience the process of bringing Fish n’ Chips to life, layer by vibrant layer.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Steve Diossy or new to the world of marine art with a sense of humor, this behind-the-scenes look is a must-watch.

🎨 Steve Diossy: Creating Humorous, Unique Fish Artwork

If you've ever seen a fish cracking open a cold one or a dolphin with a mischievous grin, chances are you've stumbled into the wonderfully wacky world of Steve Diossy—a self-taught marine artist whose unique sense of humor and love for the ocean shine through in every piece.

Born in Chicago but raised in Florida since the age of three, Steve has always had saltwater in his veins and a pencil in his hand. His art is a vivid, laugh-out-loud celebration of the coastal lifestyle, packed with vibrant colors, surprising characters, and just the right amount of fishy mischief.

🐠 From Runny Noses to Running Noses (Literally)

Steve’s creative spark was ignited early. He recalls being a quiet, shy kid in school—but one moment stuck with him:

“Someone said they had a ‘runny nose’… and I immediately imagined a nose with legs sprinting off the page. So I drew it.”

It’s that kind of quirky, offbeat imagination that turned childhood doodles into a full-blown art career—and helped Steve connect with others through laughter, color, and creativity.

🎨 The Coastal Life, on Canvas

Every Steve Diossy artwork is soaked in sunshine, saltwater, and soul. Whether it’s a group of fish enjoying a board meeting (literally on a surfboard), or a shark lured in by a pink frosted donut, his pieces bring a human twist to marine life.

That’s what sets his work apart. While he respects and draws inspiration from legends like Guy Harvey, Carey Chen, and Don Ray, Steve’s gift is seeing the world from a fish’s perspective—and giving them personalities we can all relate to.

👉 Check out fan favorites like “Board Meeting” or the wildly popular “Donut Donut Donut” to see what we mean.

🏆 Award-Winning & World-Changing

At just 16, Steve won first place and Presidential recognition for his sculpture of Michelangelo’s Florentine Pietà. But perhaps his most impactful piece is one you’ve probably seen on the road:

🌀 The “Protect Wild Dolphins” Florida license plate, designed by Steve, was commissioned by Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute/FAU and has helped raise over $20 million for marine mammal conservation. That’s art making a real-world impact.

🧢 More Than Just Canvas

Today, you can find Steve’s art everywhere from fine art galleries to fishing tournaments, and even your favorite beach bar. His work is available as:

• Limited-edition fine art prints

• Originals

• Lobster trap framed art

• Performance shirts, hats, and gear

Each product captures his signature mix of marine madness and Florida flair, making them perfect for collectors and casual fans alike.

🌊 Why People Love a Diossy

People are drawn in by the bright colors, but they stick around for the humor. There’s a little something for everyone in Steve’s work—whether you’re a hardcore angler, a beach bum, a boat show regular, or just someone who appreciates a good laugh.

His pieces don’t just decorate a wall—they spark joy, start conversations, and make you look twice. And maybe laugh a little.

📍 Want More?

Visit SteveDiossy.com for the latest artwork and gallery news, or shop official apparel and gear at SteveDiossyClothing.com.

Follow Steve on Instagram and Facebook to catch sneak peeks of new pieces and get updates on live shows, signings, and salty jokes from the sea.

Have you ever wondered about the characters splashing across Steve Diossy’s iconic marine life paintings?
It all began with a crazy idea at a bar—and ended in what’s now one of the most beloved pieces of coastal art: the Raw Bar.

🐟 It Started at the Bar...

A fish swims up to a bar and orders a round of drinks. He's joined by a pirate, a crab, and a marlin. As the drinks flow and the laughter grows... things get a little rowdy.
The bar quickly transforms into a Raw Bar—as captured in Steve Diossy’s colorful and imaginative painting.

🎨 Meet the Characters of the Raw Bar

Each character in Diossy's Raw Bar represents a real-life friend of Steve's, brought to life with wit, personality, and vibrant marine artistry.

🦀 Robby – The Crab

Steve's friend Robby is perfectly captured as the crabby and snappy crab. Robby is known for speaking before thinking, much like a crab that pinches without warning.
Fun fact: If someone’s ever pinched your last nerve, you’ve probably met a Robby!

🐟 Scotty – The Marlin

Scotty, the Marlin, brings energy and chaos everywhere he goes.
Marlin were chosen because of their unwieldy "sword" bills, symbolizing Scotty’s unstoppable nature.
In Steve’s words, Scotty had a "stiff upper lip" and would slash through obstacles without hesitation, inspiring others with his infectious, fearless attitude.

🐠 Jason – The Mahi (with a Pirate Twist)

Jason is the life of the party—the Mahi wearing an eye patch.
The patch humorously suggests Jason turning a "blind eye" to Scotty’s antics.
Jason’s vibrant personality, impersonations, and "pirate" flair made him the ideal inspiration for this character.
The Mad Mahi image has since become one of Steve Diossy’s most popular designs, featured on performance shirts, decals, towels, and tumblers.

🐡 Steve Diossy – The Nassau Grouper

Finally, we meet the artist himself—Steve Diossy, represented as the Nassau grouper.
Like the solitary grouper, Steve prefers staying in the background, letting his vibrant artwork steal the spotlight.
Known for bold markings and the ability to camouflage with surroundings, the grouper perfectly symbolizes Steve’s approach to life and art: humble, colorful, and unforgettable.

In the Raw Bar painting, Steve holds a cocktail in his fin—whether freshly refilled or untouched is left up to your imagination.

🌟 The Legacy of the Raw Bar

Today, these characters aren’t just part of one painting—they live on across Steve Diossy’s wide range of premium products, including:

• 🎽 Performance Fishing Shirts

• 🐠 Coastal Decals and Stickers

• 🏖️ Beach Towels

• 🥤 Yeti-Style Tumblers and Drinkware

• 🖼️ Fine Art Prints and Cornhole Boards

If you want to know more about the man behind these legendary designs, or shop the full collection, visit Steve Diossy's Official Website.

Steve lets his art do the talking—capturing the spirit of the ocean, friendship, and good times... one colorful painting at a time.

🔗 Quick Links:

• 🎨 Shop Steve Diossy Art and Apparel

• 🐟 Mad Mahi Performance Shirts

• 🏖️ Beach Towels Collection

• 🥤 Drinkware and Tumblers

🎨 Hungary Artist vs. Hungry Artist: Meet Steve Diossy, The Marine World’s Most Deliciously Original Creator

🐟 Art With a Fish-Eye Perspective

Steve doesn’t just paint marine life—he paints life through marine life. His characters are full of personality and mischief, whether it's a shark with a glazed donut addiction or a group of fish gathered around a bar for a post-swim cocktail.

His work speaks both Hungarian and English, but more importantly, it speaks art. Vivid colors, layered storytelling, and a completely unique perspective make each Diossy original a celebration of the sea—and the human experience within it.

🎨 A Name Among Giants in Marine Art

There are only a handful of truly iconic marine life artists out there—Wyland, Chen, Guy Harvey—and Steve Diossy is proudly among them. What sets him apart is his humor, hunger, and humanity.

He’s not just painting fish. He’s painting us, in our most joyful, relaxed, sun-soaked, slightly buzzed, and deliciously imperfect moments.

🧃 Why You'll Be Hooked

When you hang a Diossy in your home, you’re not just adding art to your walls—you’re adding life.
Whether it’s the laugh-out-loud scenes in “Board Meeting” or the relatable chaos in “Last Call”, there’s always something to discover, admire, and laugh at.

So go ahead, dive in. Get hungry for something original.
And check out the full collection of limited-edition giclées, prints, shirts, and coastal creations at SteveDiossy.com.

Time-Lapse • Behind the Claws • Full-On Lobster Madness

Ever wonder what it looks like when marine art, wild imagination, and serious skill collide?

Watch Steve Diossy bring his Ofishulz Lobster to life in a mesmerizing speed painting video, captured in time-lapse format. Set to the playful tune "Ofishulz Kind of Day" by Chuck and Nimble, this video reveals the full creative process—from the first sketch stroke to a full-color lobster with attitude.

🎨 Behind the Claws: About the Time-Lapse

• Original Artwork Title: Ofishulz Lobster

• Drawing Time: Just over 4 hours

• Video Speed: Each second = approx. 1.5 minutes of real time

• Music: "Ofishulz Kind of Day" by Chuck and Nimble

• Date Painted: July 10, 2013 (Part 01)

What starts as a basic outline quickly transforms into a bold, mischievous lobster ready to steal the show—or at least your beer and bait bucket. From tiny facial expressions to expressive claws, this crustacean has character to spare.

🛒 Get the Lobster: Shop "Tickle This Lobster" Products

Love the art? You’re not alone. This fan-favorite design is now available across multiple formats—each one claw-approved by the artist himself.

🚗 “Tickle This Lobster” Front License Plate – $14.95 (On Sale!)

Durable, embossed aluminum
Glossy finish with vibrant art
Stand out on the road or at the dock

🧼 “Tickle This Lobster” Mini Sticker – From $5

Die-cut, full-color, and super detailed
Water-resistant vinyl – perfect for cars, tumblers, tackle boxes
Size: 5" wide x 3.7" tall

☕ “Tickle This Lobster” Coffee Mug – $24.95

15oz ceramic mug with high-gloss artwork
Great for lobster lovers, caffeine addicts, or both
Dishwasher and microwave safe

🦞 Why This Lobster Stands Out

Like all of Steve Diossy’s characters, the Ofishulz Lobster is packed with:

• Vivid detail and color

• Playful attitude and expression

• A sense of coastal chaos and fun

This is more than just a crustacean—it’s a statement piece for ocean lovers, salty souls, and seafood fans who appreciate a little humor in their art.

📹 Watch the Full Time-Lapse & Join the Crustacean Nation

👉 Click here to view products and video
Then share the video with your friends who’d love a lobster with this much personality.