Ancient Roots, Modern Masterpieces
The art of Reni Stephan
By Weam Namou
“Reny Stephan’s solo exhibit, “Echoes of Mesopotamia in Detroit,” will run through May 17 at Detroit’s Scarab Club. Call (313) 306-9191 or visit sacrabclub.org for more information. ”
In the heart of Sterling Heights, tucked inside a vibrant art studio, Reni Stephan continues to sculpt, paint and inspire. The Chaldean/Assyrian American artist has spent decades blending his cultural heritage with creative expression—growing from a passionate teenager working out of his family’s garage into an internationally recognized figure in the art world.
Through sculpture, painting, teaching and community engagement, Stephan has become a steadfast advocate for preserving and celebrating Mesopotamian history while expanding his artistic reach into broader, universal themes.
Born in Baghdad in 1982, Stephan immigrated to the United States with his family in 1993. From a young age, he demonstrated a natural talent for drawing and a deep appreciation for his Chaldean/Assyrian roots—both nurtured by his parents’ strong emphasis on history and culture. His father, Sami, a well-known singer and guitarist, and other artistic relatives helped foster an environment where creativity and cultural pride were deeply valued.
In 2005, Stephan enrolled at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, where he studied painting, sculpture and graphic design. His early work—often produced in a makeshift studio in his family’s garage—was heavily influenced by ancient Mesopotamian art and history. Even then, his mission was clear: to use art as a medium for cultural education and inspiration.
As his skills and reputation grew, so did the scale of his work. What began as small, intricate sculptures and paintings evolved into major public installations, many of which now grace cultural institutions, banquet halls and community centers across Metro Detroit and beyond. Each piece reflects Stephan’s dedication to honoring Assyrian and Chaldean history while engaging new audiences.
One of Stephan’s most significant partnerships began with Ishtar Restaurant and the Chaldean Community Foundation in Sterling Heights. There, his work became a defining visual element of the organization. He painted a large-scale mural of Babylon, offering a sweeping bird’s-eye view of the ancient city, and installed two Babylonian lion sculptures in the foundation’s lobby. Over the course of two phases of expansion, he added more than a dozen additional pieces, cementing his role as a cultural ambassador through art.
Building on that success, Stephan embarked on a five-year collaboration with the Assyrian Cultural Foundation in Chicago, which concluded in 2024. During that time, he produced 24 original works—paintings and sculptures—held two solo exhibitions, and taught art classes in Michigan on behalf of the foundation. For Stephan, the partnership was about more than creating art—it was about sharing his knowledge and cultivating future generations of artists.
Currently, Stephan is focused on a new series of monumental projects for the Chaldean Community Foundation’s upcoming location in West Bloomfield. His contributions there include a replica of the Iraqi Freedom Monument, a mural of King Nebuchadnezzar overlooking the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and a detailed reproduction of the Ishtar Gate. He is also painting a life-size portrait of Bishop Ibrahim Ibrahim for the Bishop’s Library—a tribute that exemplifies his deep reverence for cultural and spiritual leadership.
Although rooted in his Chaldean/Assyrian heritage, Stephan’s work has increasingly reached broader religious and artistic audiences. One example is the Manresa Project, for which he sculpted three monumental bronze statues of Jesus and the apostles—a project that underscores his ability to bridge cultural and spiritual narratives through art.
In 2016, he founded Studio Lamassu Art Studio in Sterling Heights, where he teaches weekly drawing and painting classes to students aged 15 and older. For Stephan, teaching is more than instruction—it’s a way to pass down identity and inspire others to see the value in their cultural roots.
“Art is about more than aesthetics,” Stephan said. “It’s about preserving our roots, carrying them forward, and inspiring future generations.”
Stephan’s creative philosophy is grounded in themes of hope, resilience and cultural pride. His works frequently depict iconic scenes and figures from Mesopotamian history, reminding viewers of the strength and endurance of the Assyrian and Chaldean people.
“We have a strong culture and identity that we should keep forever,” he said. “Through art, I want to show that we are still here, still strong, and that we must never forget where we come from.”
That message is on full display in his current exhibition, “Echoes of Mesopotamia in Detroit,” which opened April 16 at the Scarab Club and will run through May 17. The exhibit showcases a selection of Stephan’s most impactful work, capturing the essence of his lifelong mission. Due to overwhelming demand, the gallery is planning a second opening date to accommodate those who were unable to attend the initial event.
“Every opportunity to share my art is an opportunity to share my culture’s story,” Stephan said. “It’s overwhelming at times, but it’s also deeply fulfilling.”
Looking ahead, Stephan has ambitious plans to expand his work and, in doing so, elevate his community’s visibility on a global scale. He hopes to exhibit in major museums and institutions, allowing broader audiences to connect with the heritage and artistry of the Assyrian and Chaldean people.
“The more you expand, the more you elevate your culture,” he said. “Ultimately, my success is a success for my community.”
Next up for Stephan is an exhibition at Southfield City Hall in May, where his work will be displayed alongside other artists. It’s another step in a journey that continues to honor ancient tradition while inspiring new generations.
Reflecting on his journey, Stephan remains grounded in gratitude and purpose.
“I credit everything to my culture,” he said. “It’s the foundation of my work and my mission. I try my best to honor it in all that I do.”