Peter Nicholas Van Giesen

"Doing art, for me, is a mystical process, a spiritual work, and an exercise of creativity. When I paint it is as if the veil of the common life is momentarily lifted allowing me to be embraced by the underlying essence of the universe. I consider my artistic expression a gift to be shared."

Anticipation of Joy - Acrylic on canvas 24 x 30 in.

"I have always known that creativity and 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!) or traded art for other stuff.

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 the business and non-profit sectors. At every phase of my life, I took time to exercise my creativity. When I had a studio space, my creative expression flourished and when I had no such space my creativity was channeled into my other endeavors.

In 2011 I renewed my commitment to my visual art and sharing that particular gift with others. I have received a number of international awards of recognition and am honored to have artwork accepted into the permanent collection at Government House of British Columbia as well as The Union Club of British Columbia.

After using oil-based paint for many years I switched to acrylic paint in 1993 and currently it is the sole medium I use. 

Looking to the Mountains for Peace - Acrylic on canvas 16 x 20 in.
Glorious Spring - Acrylic on canvas 24 x 36 in.
Hopefully Serene - Acrylic on canvas 11 x 14 in.
Winter West Coast Mystic - Acrylic on canvas 36 x 48 in.

This review was published by Circle Foundation for the Arts © CFA Press ∙ Images are courtesy of the artist


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