Peter was born in Glasgow in 1959 and studied at the Glasgow School of Art, specialising in the effects of colour and composition. After graduating in 1980 he trained as a film editor and worked for the BBC for five years.
In 1986, spurred on by the emergence of a new generation of Scottish artists, he turned to painting full time following a visit to Sardinia. “I was inspired by the intoxicating colours of the Mediterranean islands and attempted to capture their therapeutic effect.” His vibrantly coloured images of Italy and France featured in his successful debut London exhibition that confirmed his status as a new Scottish Colourist.
His pictures are flamboyant with dramatic use of colour and combine detailed brushwork with loose, fluid strokes. Despite all the challenges presented when painting ‘en plein air’ Peter insists on painting on location wherever possible.
In addition to his vibrant landscapes Peter also produces extravagant still life paintings. These are carefully created in his studio using a myriad assortment of fabrics, vases and flowers. At times these full and very colourful pictures touch on the abstract and are often painted on very large canvases.
His work has featured in many solo and group exhibitions in Scotland, England and the USA. Corporate collectors include Ernst & Young, The British Council and The Wellhouse Trust. Private collectors include Lord Max Rayne, Lord Morton and actor Robbie Coltrane.
A former Vice President of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters, Peter is a passionate and enthusiastic artist who has contributed to many books and articles on painting.
