Steve Cantrell | Arts & Culture Consulting

Elevating Arts & Culture Through Strategy & PR

Hello! I’m Steve, and I’ve always been driven by the chance to connect the disconnected. That idea, guided by curiosity, creativity, and my passion for collaboration, shapes everything I do.

My work ethic and worldview crystallized early. Growing up between London and New York, I absorbed a rich cultural tapestry: Guernica, then at MoMA, left me awestruck at seven; as a teen in London, watching Sir Laurence Olivier on the West End stages and discovering the vibrant early works of artists like David Hockney, and finally, spending summers in a Burgundy chateau was transformative. Returning to New York in my early 20s, smoky basement jazz clubs and the Lower East Side’s experimental performance scene were equally captivating.

Immersing myself in these vibrant, dynamic worlds ignited my passion for a career in the arts. My journey began in Lower Manhattan’s alternative art scene, supporting emerging artists creating new works in public spaces. Later, I brought this cutting-edge perspective to more mainstream institutions.

My curiosity and drive for cultural discovery then led me west, first to Santa Fe and now to Taos. New Mexico’s tri-cultural tapestry inspires me as deeply as the cities I left behind. I remain actively involved here, engaging with the local art community, serving on several boards, and contributing to organizations like the Santa Fe International Literary Festival, Taos Center for the Arts, and the Helene Wurlitzer Foundation.

The same drive for making things happen extends into my daily life—whether immersed in native plant research and cultivation, crafting a meal for friends, or connecting with local creatives.

This is the very essence of my work as a consultant. I bring this perspective to you, offering strategic guidance in communications strategy, creative collaborations, and project planning. I am eager to learn about your story and aspirations, and to hear what inspires you.

My greatest joy is discovering new possibilities with others. Together, we can unlock new possibilities and clarify the vibrant picture of what’s next. Please feel free to reach out with your thoughts and questions or let me know a convenient time for us to connect.

I look forward to our conversation.

Steve is a wonderful asset to the Santa Fe community. He's a leader in event planning and course development. At the community college he developed many new programs and energized existing ones. The work he is doing at the Office of Cultural Affairs has raised their profile substantially. He is a pleasure to work with.

Despite a sometimes circus-like atmosphere fostered by juggling three museums and all the state's monuments, Steve operates with a zen-like efficiency. He accomplishes his tasks without drama and serves as my go-to person for considering ideas and weighing options. A consummate team player, he's also comfortable with putting his nose to his work and getting it done. And he does it all with great humor, intelligence and heart.

Steve Cantrell is an enthusiastic writer, with a great sense of humor. A pleasure to work with, Steve is an accomplished professional with attention to detail and accuracy delivered with style.

Mr. Steve Cantrell is an extremely professional, well organized, and dependable colleague who performs multiple duties for several museums and monuments throughout the state of New Mexico. He is an asset to the Department of Cultural Affairs that we cherish highly.

Steve was always a pleasure to work with. He is very thorough and detail oriented. He was always looking for programs to attract new patrons to the Museum of Art as well as to satisfy the museum members.

Steve has mastered many broad-based skills in his years as an educator, curator, and program director. His subtle personality and offbeat humor make him a delightful colleague. His attention to detail, his understanding of budgets in both the profit and non-profit worlds, and his ability to work with all sorts of people make him an excellent choice as an employee.