Nick Peterson-Davis
What are your earliest memories of being artistic? As a young child I loved drawing and creating stuff.
When did art become a pursuit? I painted professionally 10 years ago, but had to put the paints away when my partner and I decided to adopt children. Now my kids are older and I have retired so my intention to is paint and create.
Are you self-taught or formally educated in visual art? Mostly self-taught. I have read books and taken classes at Mass Art.
Early Spring, Oil Paint
In what other ways are you involved in the local art community? I have a great studio in Allston at 199 Braintree Street. In addition, I am part of a co-op gallery in SoWa with three other artists. Finally, I do Brookline Open Studios in my home.
What role do you think the artist plays in society? An artist engages the heart and soul to create art. And society – the folks that view the art – engage in the same way. There is an emotional intellectual/emotional experience. The role of artist in society is to connect us to our humanity.
What medium do you currently work in and how did you choose this medium? I work with oil paints. I like the simplicity of oil paint – pigment and linseed oil. What could be more natural?!
I like the slow drying characteristic of oil paints. I love blending and layering color.
Xenia Garden, Oil Paint
What is your creative process? Where are you finding ideas for your art these days? Most of my ideas come from my every day life. I paint my gardens and all sort of things around my home.
How do you choose your subject matter? Is there a reoccurring theme that carries throughout your work? I paint mostly familiar and accessible pieces. I take liberties with colors and shapes – but hope that the viewer will connect with the familiar.
In your opinion, what’s your best/favorite piece you’ve made? This is a difficult question. Too many favorites I guess.
What is one of your artistic goals? I want get into portraits and figurative artwork. I would like to paint my kids, partner, and folks that I love.
Summer Garden, Oil Paint
What’s your favorite place to see art? I love our museums.
What living artists are you inspired by?
Michelle Harvey
Paul Balmer
Do you own any art by other artists? Yes, we have lot’s of art from other artists. We’ve been collecting for many years and virtually every wall of our house is home to something interesting.
Do you have any shows coming up? I am part of a co-op gallery in SoWa and we have shows every first Friday of the month. The gallery is called Gallery 416. We have a blast!
See More Nick!
Website: www.nickpetersondavis.com
Instagram: nickpetersondavis1958