PETER VAN GIESEN | peternvangiesen.com |
“A
bove and beyond all else, I'm an artist. I have always known that creativity & inspiration are part of my life force.
I discovered my artistic and business talents early in elementary school as I sold some of my first works of art at recess for snack money (yes, I did get in trouble for it). After finishing high school in Ontario, I completed a college degree in Religion and a University degree in Psychology. I was encouraged by my family to work in the church. I tried it for a few years but naturally gravitated away from the church into the business and charitable sectors. For most of my working life, I have been a business owner or senior executive in business and non-profit sectors.
“Active Pass, Georgina Point, Mount Baker”, Acrylic on Canva, 9’’x12’’
WHY ART? "Doing art is a mystical process, a spiritual work, and an exercise of creativity. When I paint, it's as if the veil of ordinary life is momentarily lifted, allowing me to embrace the underlying essence of the universe. My artistic expression is a gift to be shared. Naturally, I am drawn to the mystery implicit in the natural world. I feel more spiritually alive when outside. “Heaven's Point” Acrylic on Board, 12’’x16’’
At every phase of my life, I exercised my creativity. My creative expression flourished when I had a studio space, and when I had no such area, I channeled my creativity into my other endeavors. In 2011, I renewed my commitment to visual art and sharing that particular gift with others. As a result, I have received several international awards of recognition. I am honored to have artwork accepted into the permanent collection at the Government House of British Columbia and The Union Club of British Columbia. After using oil-based paint for many years, I switched to acrylic paint in 1993; currently, it is the sole medium I use.
My art results from sporadic energy surges that percolate past my consciousness. My style hovers between representation and impressionism with a dash of abstraction. I attempt to reach into the fabric of the world, exploring the dynamics of tension and elasticity. Using paint, I create images based on the interplay between darkness and light, the interconnected aura of the natural world." “Silva Bay, Mid-Morning Delight” Acrylic on Canvas, 24’’x30’’
I am thankful for the opportunity to share my talents with those interested and am pleased to have you consider joining me on my journey as a friend. I have operated Central Art Studio & Gallery in downtown Victoria since 2017, where I sell my artworks and those from other Vancouver Island Artists.
102 | WINTER 2023
www.arttourinternational.com
