06/17/2026
Midweek ‘Meet the Artist’ Feature ✨ A closer look at the creative mind behind this month’s exhibit
🎨Brooke Peterson🎨
How did you first get started as an artist?
🎨I’ve always been drawn to art as a creative outlet. I began painting again about 10 years ago, but at the time my daughter was still young, so I rarely found time to finish a piece. I really returned to painting during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to process uncertainty and block out the chaos of that time.Art also became an important creative outlet from the pressure of my full-time job managing a town. I originally started with realistic painting, but over time I’ve moved into brighter, more textured, expressive work that simply makes me feel good.
Which artists (past or present) have inspired or influenced your work the most?
🎨My high school art teacher has been one of my biggest influences. She not only created and sold her own work but also taught, which showed me that it was possible to share art even without pursuing it full time. She has remained a supportive mentor and an ongoing source of encouragement over the years.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out as an artist?
🎨Keep creating and keep sharing your work. It can feel vulnerable to put art into the world and open yourself up to feedback, but it’s important to lean on your support system and connect with other artists. The art community is often incredibly supportive and full of people willing to share advice and encouragement.
What drew you to the medium(s) you work in today?
🎨I work in several mediums, but acrylic is my go-to. I love that it allows flexibility—if something isn’t working, I can let it dry and paint over it. I also enjoy experimenting with watercolor, ink, alcohol markers, and acrylic markers.
Right now, I’ve been practicing portrait sketches as well, which is a reminder that you’re never truly “done” learning in art—there’s always a new challenge to explore.
What do you hope viewers feel when they experience your work in person?
🎨I hope my work brings people joy. I love using bright colors, playful creatures, expressive florals, fun food themes, and fresh perspectives on places I’ve visited. I genuinely love every piece I create and would keep them all if I had the wall space.
It brings me joy to sell my work, knowing someone connected with it deeply enough to bring it into their space. That connection is what matters most to me.
Music, podcasts, silence or chaos—what’s playing while you create?
🎨I sometimes listen to true crime podcasts—which is a funny contrast to my bright, colorful work—but most often I listen to Beatles Radio on Pandora.
If your artwork had a mood or personality, what would it be?
🎨Extraverted and expressive. My work is full of energy, vibrancy, and movement.
✨Don’t miss it—Brooke Peterson’s exhibit is on view at Witter Gallery now through June 27. Stop in and see the work up close!✨
