At a farmers market in Lindon, Utah, a quiet presence draws in passersby—not just with vivid, nature-inspired digital art, but with a story that resonates deeply. Steve Henline, an 80-year-old veteran and cancer patient, sits behind a booth filled with images of animals, mountains, and serene landscapes. His journey, marked by military service, personal battles, and a late-in-life artistic awakening, has become as compelling as the artwork itself. For those seeking stories of resilience, healing through creativity, and the power of digital art, Henline’s life offers a poignant example.

Henline’s story begins decades ago, during the Vietnam War, when he volunteered to serve in the U.S. Air Force. After four years, he returned to Spanish Fork, Utah, and married his high school sweetheart, Judy Keele. Their 57-year marriage has weathered both joy and hardship. At one particularly dark moment, Henline found himself contemplating suicide—a crisis he attributes to a dangerous mix of medications. He recalled sitting alone at 3 a.m. with a bottle of whiskey and a gun, only to be pulled back by thoughts of his wife. That moment became a turning point.

Realizing he needed a creative outlet to cope with the emotional weight he carried, Henline initially dreamed of painting. However, physical limitations made traditional art forms like watercolor and oil painting too difficult. When he turned to a friend in California for advice on digital art, the response was blunt: “You’re too old. The technology is advancing every day, and it’s too difficult.”

Undeterred, Henline decided to try anyway. He downloaded design software, including the Adobe suite, and began experimenting with artificial intelligence tools. He drew inspiration from his global travels and time in the military, channeling memories into digital compositions. After eight and a half months of learning and creating, he finally produced work he felt proud to share.

“That changed my life in many, many ways,” Henline said. He had feared that digital art wouldn’t be accepted by traditional artists, but those fears proved unfounded. His work, often depicting wildlife and natural scenes, found an audience. It has since been sold at local markets, shipped internationally, and displayed in venues like the Covey Center for the Arts in Utah.

Henline’s story is especially moving given his current battle with inoperable cancer. Undergoing chemotherapy and other treatments, he continues to create and connect with others through his art. He describes his booth at the farmers market as a place not just for selling, but for storytelling. “I use this art as a vehicle for people to come chat because they’re curious about it,” he explained. “They’ve never seen anything like this.”

One of the most striking aspects of Henline’s work is its emotional depth. His digital pieces, inspired by animals and landscapes, reflect a longing for peace and harmony—qualities he seeks in his own life. A notable example is a piece depicting a baby bear, a symbol of innocence and quiet strength. These images are more than decorative; they’re expressions of a man’s journey through trauma, healing, and hope.

What stands out most is Henline’s desire to give back. Beyond selling his art, he hopes to launch a nonprofit organization to teach children with special needs how to use digital tools for artistic expression. By sharing both his skills and his story, he aims to inspire others who may be facing their own challenges. “We need to do what I’m doing here—sing our songs and tell our story—because without that, our lives would be meaningless,” he said.

I found this detail striking: despite a late start and serious health issues, Henline has not only embraced a new medium but has also used it to build community and offer hope. His commitment to creativity as a form of survival underscores the therapeutic potential of digital art, especially for those navigating complex emotional or physical landscapes.

Henline’s experience also challenges assumptions about age and technology. In an era where digital tools are often seen as the domain of the young, his story is a reminder that learning and innovation are lifelong pursuits. His success demonstrates that digital media can be accessible and meaningful at any stage of life, especially when driven by purpose and passion.

For those interested in viewing Henline’s work, his art is available online and at farmers markets in Lindon, Orem, and Springville, depending on his health. Each piece carries not just visual beauty, but a story of endurance, transformation, and the quiet power of creativity.

Read more at ksl.com