About the Artist: Peter Piatt

Artist Statement: "Many artists find it difficult to communicate verbally, that is why we let our artwork speak for us. Pictorially we tell the viewer our mood, thoughts, and our experience. If an artist wants to portray emotion or drama, it will show in their work, either it being low in contrast to show a soft emotion, or heavy with contrast to evoke a strong dramatic response. It is not simply talent, but effort and proficiency that can be seen in ones artwork."

Background: I was raised in Long Beach CA in 1965, I presently live in Chico CA along with my three cats. I was born with brittle bone disease that prevented me from physically participating with others my age. I spent most of my childhood in casts (88 bones broken so far), putting me in the shadow of others and forced to watch the world go by. As a child I would draw what I saw around me over and over again until it was correct. I would quick-sketch on napkins and homework and copy scenes from National Geographic. I loved National Geographic because it gave me a chance to experience the world while I was stuck in mine.

By high school, I abandoned my creative side and focused on a career as an auto mechanic.

By the year 2000 and ripe age of 35, I had three mild heart attacks and a triple-by-pass surgery. I decided to calm my life down and take a few basic art classes to sooth my soul. I learned the basics of drawing, but pursued a long desire of photography. I continued my education and received my BS in Applied Computer Graphics and Majored in Art Studio 2005.

After graduation, I created a home based business creating computer 3D models for artists and designers. Here I focused on photorealism, it is essential that I create concept imagery that is close to reality.

I have a background in scenic photography, where I photograph only the essential part of what I see around me and I try to portray that photographic style within my sketches. Although I try to push the limits of photorealism within a monochromatic medium, imitating a moment or mood is my goal.

Even though I have had a few drawing classes in college, I am basically self taught. I learned the raw basics and then experimented with technique and materials on my own. I have used charcoal but prefer graphite pencils because I can achieve the details necessary for realistic sketches.

Achievements: My artwork has been exhibited at Moxie's Cafe and Gallery as well as other locations, mostly in Chico CA and Medford OR. A few have been published in Photographer's Forum: Best of College Photography Annual 2002. "Burney Blues" American Library of Photography 2002, and Casting Softly" Field & Stream contest winner 2003.