Many years ago, Frankfort’s Steve Lotysz would gaze through the gates of Medinah Country Club and wonder about the possibilities. As an artist and former dentist known in the golfing world as Steve Lotus, he dreamed of painting the beautiful course. Today, that dream is realized as he provides artwork for the Presidents Cup, held at Medinah’s Course No. 3. The event’s festivities began Tuesday, with the competition starting Thursday.
Lotysz, now 73, has been invited inside those gates for major events several times. As spectators gather, he will greet them and offer prints of his work for sale. On Thursday, the United States team, led by Brandt Snedeker, faces the International team under Geoff Ogilvy’s leadership. Notable American players include Scottie Scheffler, Cameron Young, Wyndham Clark, and Justin Thomas. The International roster features Si Wood Kim, Ryan Fox, Min Woo Lee, and Adam Scott.
The Presidents Cup, a biennial event since 1994, boasts a 13-1-1 advantage for the United States, including 10 consecutive wins. Lotysz has also created works for the 1999 and 2006 PGA Championships, both won by Tiger Woods at Medinah, and for the 2012 Ryder Cup, famously titled the ‘Miracle at Medinah’ when Team Europe made a historic comeback.
From his home in Frankfort, Lotysz continues to sketch and prepare for his involvement in prestigious tournaments. This year, Lotysz has added to his portfolio with projects for the PGA Championship near Philadelphia and the Open Championship in Southport, England. In October, he and his wife, Sue, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
Sue plays an essential role in managing administrative tasks as Lotysz pursues his passion. Since 1997, when he became a signature artist at the U.S. Senior Open at Olympia Fields Country Club, he has completed art for 56 events. Lotysz attributes much of his success to his deep connection to golf. While some golf artists aren’t golfers, Lotysz believes his experience on the course enhances his painting.
For Lotysz, each creation receives a prayer beforehand, reflecting his spiritual beliefs. His signature includes the Christian fish symbol, embodying his faith throughout decades of work. Though Lotysz does not set a specific goal for the number of commissions, he continues to paint as long as his work is well-received. Already slated for two events in 2027, the PGA Championships in Frisco, Texas, and the Open Championship in St. Andrews, Scotland, Lotysz remains committed to his craft.
To Lotysz, the relationships formed through his art and the appreciation he receives from friends and clients are fulfilling. His dedication to painting and the connections he has fostered place him among the most trusted and admired artists in golf.