Harvey Steinhaus was born in Iowa and lived there until graduation from college. He had an interest in art from an early age and enjoyed creative projects. He minored in art at St Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa. The small art department there focused on drawing, calligraphy and watercolor painting.

After college Harvey continued to do some drawing and watercolor painting in his spare time, but then demands of work and family took over and he stopped painting. Once digital photography was accessible, he started taking photos, and printing his own large format prints. Upon moving to Trilogy and retiring he had more time available, and in early 2017 he began to paint in watercolor again. He now takes local painting workshops for furthering his skills. Harvey is inspired to paint local scenes, especially the many alleys of Rio Vista, farms & ranches, and the marinas & boats. He generally adds more colorful accents in his interpretation of the structures and landscape.

Harvey is a member of the Trilogy Art Guild and displays his art at The Point Restaurant and the Rio Vision Art Gallery.