Artist Statement

Peter’s fascination with the natural and spiritual world combined with the human and animal condition continues to challenge him when interpreting such moving themes of personal strength, connection, growth, diversity and change within our daily existence.  Inspiration is found in stories past and present that share and reveal how living organisms are connected to one another and how they thrive everyday.  These stories often leave an impression, whether it’s the emotional, physical or spiritual connections within life found around him or those imagined and read in various publications.  Recent works continue to present his passion for storytelling.  In his latest work, the focus has turned towards “visual stories of togetherness”. Stylized trees and landscapes are formed and brought to life by his imaginative and illustrative narratives of love, friendship, family and community.  These new and unique pieces are found in his latest collection, affectionately called the “Together” series.     

Each new idea is looked at as a beginning to a visual story in which the figure(s), animal(s) and flowers are the primary subjects.  The positioning and size of each subject is the key; they set my stories in motion, always creating a feeling of joy within me as I shape and place them.  The bodies in my figurative pieces are stylistically exaggerated in order to create wonder as well as expand the negative spaces that surround them.  The symbols and objects that accumulate in these negative spaces help link each relationship, and add to the overall narrative.  The environments that surround the main subjects frame each story, and help pull the composition together.

Peter has painted on carefully selected pieces of hand-carved plywood for many years. With the recent discovery of the incredible insect engraved Ash Wood he has found a brand new love for wood and all the amazing and creative potential it has to offer!  With the additional use of mechanical carving tools I've been able to enhance the natural textures left behind by the Emerald Ash Borer while still maintaining their original patterns.  I feel that working on found wood compliments my deep interest in people, wildlife and the environment by linking each element with the steady flow of surface relief.  Through constant experimentation with colour and layering using graphite, molding paste, acrylic and oil, I have discovered that each is equally important and has a purpose within my process.

As I anticipate moving forward, I will continue to draw inspiration from life as I see and feel it.  I hope through the steady development of my style and each new idea that springs to mind that I continue to be challenged while facing new possibilities!!