Preview, Brian Petro, A Retrospective, June 1 - July 5, 2007

A Retrospective Exhibition Preview
Brain Petro

Artist Statement

I have difficulty standing still, sitting still, or even sleeping still. From abstract watercolors and beeswax on canvas and paper, to images printed on bricks, to aggressive construct works, to tranquil still-lifes, my work is partly a reflection of my inability to stay focused.

About the Artist

From dark portraits to placid images of fruit, to whimsical visual jokes, Brian Petro's work represents his wandering, and wondering mind. He credits his style to the dichotomy between his supportive, rural, central Pennsylvania upbringing, and the brutal independence of urban life. Global travel and urban exploration fuel his search for images, ideas and processes. As a child he had always created artworks of complexity and quality. It was not until several years into what he refers to as his "office career" that he began to re-educate himself on observation of artwork in public and private collections. Brian has received no formal training in the arts. Encouraged by some initial sales and a passion for the creative arts, Brian decided to take a chance, leave his "job", and follow this passion. The gamble paid off. Past commercial clients include Absolut Vodka, the Ritz Carlton Hotels, Saks Fifth Avenue and The Library of Congress. Brian has been published in regional and national news magazines and newspapers, and he and his work have been featured on several television shows, including HGTV's Curb Appeal.



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