Tom "Deacon Man" Steck is a self-taught folk artist from central Pennsylvania who has been creating art since 2002. While most young men were experiencing a "Summer of Love" in 1967, Tom joined the Marines and found himself in a "summer of hate" in Vietnam. That is where he met Jesus, the "Prince of Peace and Love". Embracing religion transformed Tom's heart, mind, and hands and Tom credits his inspiration and creativity to his relationship with God. He believes that all of his work is divinely inspired. He combines hand carved wooden sculptures with found objects to create one-of-a-kind unique pieces. He has been featured in many shows, including The Baltimore Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore, Guilford College in Greensboro, NC, Syracuse University, Kentucky Folk Art Center, and others.
Dimensions:
Material:
Design:
- Hand-carved
- Made by Tom Steck
Origin:
- Made in central Pennsylvania
Care:
- Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth or a feather duster regularly
- For intricate carvings, use a soft brush (like a paintbrush) to reach crevices
- Wipe with a slightly damp cloth if needed; immediately dry with a soft towel
- Avoid soaking, submerging, or using harsh chemical cleaners—they can warp or damage the wood
- Apply a high-quality wood polish, wax, or natural oil (like beeswax or mineral oil) every few months
- Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade color and dry the wood
- Keep away from radiators, fireplaces, or heaters to prevent cracking
- Wood can expand and contract with humidity changes
- Keep in a stable environment—ideally 40–60% humidity
- Avoid damp basements or overly dry, heated rooms
