We’re looking forward to introducing you to Dune Stewart. Check out our conversation below.
Dune, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
My next poetry book, The Graveyard Bartender, is what I’m most proud of building at the moment. After countless hours of reading and listening to poetry, I realized free verse and spoken poetry are the modern day norms of delivering poetry. As a kid, Shel Silverstein’s, Where the Sidewalk Ends, was a memorable, hilarious nursery rhyme book, and I don’t see many books today for adults that grew up with that style of writing. So I’m excited to be building a collection of X-rated nursery rhyme poems that center around my time as a graveyard bartender.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Dune Stewart, and I am a narrative, storytelling-driven photographer and writer. My brand focuses on social and mental health issues, creating imagery that invites audiences to immerse themselves in its atmosphere and narrative world.
I recently released a limited edition landscape fine art series based on Yosemite National Park, available at dunestewartlimited.com. Each of the five selected photographs is offered as one of ten limited edition prints. For every image, I created two editions—one on fine art paper and one on metal—carefully choosing the print medium to best complement the character and visual impact of each piece.
In addition to my photography, I am currently working on a poetry book titled, The Graveyard Bartender, which focuses on stories that surround my time as a graveyard bartender at a casino. I want it to serve as an adult spiritual successor to Where the Sidewalk Ends, geared towards those who enjoy nursery rhyme poetry, but this time with adult content. TBA 2025
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The early stages of my artistic career were shaped by a dark period in my mental health, which I gradually recovered from over several years. At this point, returning to that space would feel detrimental. Instead, I believe it’s more constructive to focus on the present and future—with optimism—and to let that forward-looking mindset become the new foundation for my creative work.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There have been several points in my journey where I nearly gave up. Studying art in a formal setting has fueled tremendous growth, but it has also brought the looming fear of struggling to find stable work in the field beyond freelancing. During my academic years, I often considered switching to a more practical major to secure future job stability. Even after graduating, I’ve contemplated learning a trade or pursuing business certifications to appear more versatile and adaptable in today’s job market. It’s a daily struggle to escape the service industry and enter into a more fulfilling field, and I yearn for the day that I can start building and living the dream I set out for myself.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
Myth: You’re only a real photographer if you work full-time in the industry—and needing another job means you haven’t truly made it.
Reality: The job market is unpredictable, constantly evolving with new technologies and emerging fields. Chasing a photography career without any supplemental income can lead to financial and emotional burnout. I’ve learned this firsthand. At one point, I tried to rely solely on photography, but it wasn’t sustainable. Returning to part-time service work gave me the freedom to enjoy my creative process again. It also gave me the financial flexibility to present my work with more intention and reach a wider audience—without sacrificing my well-being or artistic integrity.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I made important artwork that made a positive impact on their perspective in life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dunestewart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dunestewart
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dunestewart/
- Facebook: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dunestewart/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DuneStewart/videos
Image Credits
Dune Stewart
Pexels.com
