Page 67 - Reader's House magazine

“Gary Petersen’s vibrant abstractions balance precision with spontaneity, inviting viewers into a dynamic world of color, movement, and form.” veterinarian. However, a chance elective art class in his junior year revealed his true passion. Socializing among graduate art students, Petersen discovered a creative universe that called him to seize the brush and begin painting. Over the years, trans- Gary Petersen is a visionary formative residencies have played a crucial role artistic powerhouse whose in his creative evolution. fearless innovation, vibrant Experiences at places like MacDowell and Italy’s palette, and masterful abstrac- Bogliasco Foundation have tion continue to inspire and captivate. D R A F T From solo to group exhibiti- ons across New York, Munich, and beyond, Petersen approac- hes each show with thoughtful intent. In solo exhibitions, he meticulously choreographs the interplay between his work and provided him with the rare the chosen space, collaborating gift of unhurried explora- closely with gallery professio- nals to ensure that each stroke tion—a vital break from everyday distractions. In the and hue engages in an evocative sun-drenched Ligurian light dialogue with its environment. of Bogliasco, the interplay While group shows involve of vibrant cityscape hues pushed a more passive installation him to experiment boldly with process governed by curators, color. Such residencies not only his vigilant studio practice con- tinues to refine and define his broaden his creative horizons but also allow him to meet di- unmistakable signature. verse artists, further fueling his Ultimately, Petersen hopes artistic vision. his work captures not only Recognition in the art world the gaze but the heart of each has also bolstered his creative viewer—inviting introspection journey. The surprise and honor and joy, and offering a narrative of being awarded The Barnett that speaks to the immediacy and Annalee Newman Foundati- of our present while remaining timeless. on Grant in 2020 was a turning point. Besides the financial freedom to focus exclusively on his studio work, the grant’s lega- cy lives on as one of Petersen’s paintings was acquired for the Newman Foundation collection at New York’s Jewish Mu- seum—an accolade that placed him alongside many celebrated artists. Reader’s House II 67