Steve Penley attended the School of Visual Arts in New York and the University of Georgia. After school, Penley was put off by much of the controversial, and aloof contemporary art world. He began working odd jobs and painting in his spare time, convinced there was no room for his style and subject matter in the modern art market. Despite his own disillusionment, Penley’s artistic talented was recognized by Robert Steed, an art collector who would go on to become Penley’s benefactor. Steed was well connected in the art world, and appreciation for Penley’s work grew rapidly.