Paul Peterson
A Barn's Portrait
Paul Peterson (b. 1967) grew up on a farm near Wakonda, South Dakota and currently lives in Sturgis. His background provided unique insights into the evolution of the Eastern South Dakota landscape and farming, which is reflected in his abstracted scenes and bold color choices.
A Barn’s Portrait was purchased from the South Dakota Governor’s 5th Biennial Art Exhibition. The South Dakota Arts Council provides grant funding for this important traveling exhibition, including a purchase award for each participating venue.
Peterson’s artist statement in the 5th Biennial catalog read, “Growing up in Southeastern South Dakota has given me an intimate understanding of rural life and a unique perspective as an artist. Viewers of my work will not only perceive a sense of place but will also experience the complicated and sometimes contradictory feelings many rural residents experience over their lifetimes. The paintings are colorful, emotionally autobiographical and reflect my feeling of connection to the land.”
He discussed this painting and his process with Kacey Klocek, a student in Dr. Christine Stewart’s SDSU Honors Comp II class. See that interview here:
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