Denice Peters has been painting with pastels for more than 30 years, going full time in 2010. Her goal is to create realistic pastel paintings using strong light and dark contrast, with a touch of nostalgia and a sense of peace. “I’m attracted to the effect that light has on nature and everyday objects,” Peters says. “This spark of light, shining against the dark is what inspires me. The subject doesn’t always matter—it’s that spark of life radiating forth that makes me want to paint it. Each painting is about this dramatic glow and evoking an emotional response in a style I call ‘blended reality,’ where I blend with my fingers.
Wine and Prose, soft pastel, 12 x 16"“The elements of light, detail and feeling all come together to create serenity, appeal and sentimentality, through everyday items and antiques or landscapes that I visit.” Peters achieves this without any other implements other than her fingers and pastel sticks. Starting with a quick hand-drawn sketch of the large shapes, she then adds the color and details as she paints. “My hope is to help others see that beauty and peace,” says Peters. “Life is too short to do otherwise.”
Good Measure, soft pastel, 9 x 12"
Memories for Sale, soft pastel, 16 x 20"
Peters has won many awards including Best of Show in the 2021 MidAmerica Pastel Society’s National Competition and Honorable Mention in The Artist’s Magazine International. She has attained Signature Status in the MidAmerican Pastel Society and the Iowa Pastel Society, and was juried into the prestigious International Guild of Realism. Peters will have a solo show in January 2025 at Octagon Gallery in Ames, Iowa. —
Want to See More?
denicepeters@ymail.com
www.denicepeters.com
Facebook: /DenicePetersArtDenStudio
Instagram: @denice.peters
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