Robert Peterson

How did you get into making art?

I picked up a paint brush for the first time in July of 2012 after being told some bad news from my doctor. I had always thought about painting and I could draw but never tried because I didn’t think it would turn out good. The bad news was what I needed to get over the feeling of being intimidated.

What are you currently working on?

I am currently working on the last painting that will be included in my first solo museum exhibition. I will have over 40 works on view at the Wichita Art Museum in Wichita, KS. This last piece titled “My favorite everything” is a painting of my wife and I. It is the first time I’ve ever painted the two of us together. I plan to surprise my wife with it there at the museum.

What inspired you to get started on this body of work?

I think like most artists, we all dream of one day having our work collected and shown in museums. My work is currently in the permanent collection of 7-8 museums across the United States so this was my next big goal. I found inspiration in everything and everyone. I try to always live in the moment and in doing so, I am constantly surprised and inspired.

Do you work on distinct projects or do you take a broader approach to your practice?

My goal is to create works of art that focus on my truth and the truths of those I paint. Far to often the media portrays men and women of color in way that I can’t relate to. Music, film, TV and even literature often highlight the negative sides of what it means to be black by showcasing those that do or have done wrong. As for me, the people I surround myself with and the people I paint, that’s not us. We are resilient, honest, hardworking, full of love for ourselves, families and our communities and we are people of integrity and thats a part of what I hope my works speak to those that see it.

What’s a typical day like in your studio?

I usually get to the studio anywhere between 4am and 7am each day. I immediately turn in the music as loud as it can be so that every corner of my studio is filled with the sounds of someone singing. If I have paintings that need to be shipped I usually will pack them early in the morning and put in the order for them to be picked up by the currier. After all of that’s done, I typically am somewhere near an easel preparing my brushes and pallets to work on a painting. I try to put in at least 8 hours a day 6-7 days a week painting. Some times I get into a zone and 12,13 or even 14 hours have past and then it’s time to call it a night.

Who are your favorite artists?

About 8 years ago I was introduced to Barkley Hendricks work. His work is brilliant to me. I also really enjoy works by Kerry James Marshall, Gordon Parks and Titus Kaphar.

Where do you go to discover new artists?

Because I live in a small town in Oklahoma Ive discovered most artist that i now follow on instagram. When I get to travel I always stop in to galleries and museums to see who and what is showing. As I mentioned, I am always inspired and find great inspiration from those random trips to galleries and museums.