Label
John R. Peterson
c. 1949 - 2008
Sculpture
c. 1995 | found objects and latex paint
Notes: John Peterson was a “free spirit” who often spent time creating art in Saugatuck. He was formally trained at the Chicago Institute of Art and was an accomplished draftsman, sculptor, and muralist.
Peterson, who loved to camp while he was in Saugatuck, drew in a style reminiscent of the San Francisco “hippie” sensibility. His beautifully executed works are created by juxtaposing tight patterns against negative space, creating illusions of depth and shading. The works are filled with whimsey, surprise, and playfulness, but are not intended to be “fluff.” There is a deep side to his works that holds the eye, like the fascination and horror experienced when viewing tragedy.
John was also known as muralist and sculptor. Here, instead of using lines on paper, he celebrates the shapes and textures of found objects.
Collection: Saugatuck Douglas History Center
Gift of: Judy Oberholtzer
Accession: 2016.35.13
