I live and paint in the seaside village of Georgetown, Maine, and have but to look out my window to witness the ocean in all its patterns, rhythms and colors. The sea has thus become a central theme in my work—its rocky shores, thundering waves, marshes, sand shapes, and working harbors. While I usually find my subject matter in New England, I regularly explore new vistas through travel in the U.S. and internationally.
As a contemporary realist and a landscape painter, I try to convey the drama, energy and power I feel in nature, in a particular place, in a particular moment—the sparkle of light on water, the sweep of the surf, the changing tides and weather. When people look at my work, I want it to strike a chord—to surface a positive memory or emotion, to resonate with or reinforce something good in their lives.
Painting since I was 7 years old and formally trained in Studio Art at the University of Maryland as well as through myriad workshops and tutors, I now work full time in my studio or outdoors. I have been particularly influenced and inspired by the works of Winslow Homer, William Turner, and Sidney Laurence. In my early career, I helped to found two artist-owned galleries to promote the work of Maine artists. I am now represented in Maine by the Elizabeth Moss Gallery and the Centre St. Arts Gallery, and in New Hampshire by the N.W. Barrett Gallery, and am an Associate in Oil Painters of America. My work, which is held in private collections in the U.S. and abroad, has been shown at the Maine Statehouse and in over 200 solo or juried exhibits and gallery invitationals.
Website
http://leapetersonart.net
