Lerri Peterson
Pastel, Watercolor, Acrylic, Graphite
ARTIST STATEMENT:
“I was born in Hawthorne, named after my dad, and raised in the South Bay. Drawing, painting or any other type of creative endeavor, is first and foremost in my life. I love to create.
That creative light was almost snuffed out in the late ‘70’s when I had to endure a semester with a teacher whose narrow view on watercolor technique caused me to put my paints up for a dozen years. However, the spark of creativity is not to be so easily extinguished.
In the early ‘90’s I yielded to that need to create, and took a watercolor class through the local adult school, figuring if I didn’t like the teacher, I could quit! Instead, the flood doors were flung open, and I discovered that, ‘Yes, I could paint!’ and it wasn’t difficult at all.
Since then, I have branched out into acrylics, oils, pastels and graphite. Watercolor is my favorite though, anymore, it is hard to choose a favorite.
I love Nature in all its many facets, and that is primarily what I choose to paint. Whether it is the beautiful, barren landscapes of Death Valley, a stormy sea, quiet mountain lake, barnyard critters, my own pets, or the flowers, fruits and veggies from my garden, I can find beauty and wonder in it all, and a need to put that essence down in paint, pastel or pencil.
One of my teachers asked me what I was trying to ‘say’ with my art, I didn’t know how to answer at the time, because I had never thought art had to ‘say’ anything, but maybe all I want to say with my art, is there is a world of beauty around us, that Nature is art, and should be appreciated, celebrated and treasured above all else.
Now, instead of taking classes, I am teaching classes in acrylic, drawing and watercolor at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center in Torrance. I encourage anyone who wants to draw or paint to take a class, you’ll be amazed at what you can do given a bit of time and patience with yourself. Remember: It’s just a piece of paper!”
All artwork priced with frames, approval of artist to sell without frames; price upon request. Pastels must be sold with the frame because of their fragile nature.
For more of Lerri’s art visit her website at: www.artbylerri.com
To purchase call: 310-991-7144 or e-mail gabrielle.artistsstudio.pvac@gmail.com
