Signal Hill. Peter.
Sharing a story from a very creative friend, fondly remembered from both my high school and university journeys. When I, as a very shy 19 year old entered the fine arts program at Queen’s University, it was wonderful to have a familiar face and dear soul to connect with over those 4 years. I remember lengthy train rides from Kingston where I poured over Peter’s science textbooks, fascinated by the interesting organic patterns in many cross-section photos (train doodles led to a series of abstract paintings). Then came facebook re-connecting, and more recently we have bonded through instagram where Peter shares his vibrant and beautiful ink and watercolour paintings. Not to mention the development of Peter’s small-batch handmade paints. Such care in his creations, as the love of artful science returns!
We have also shared the recent loss of a parent in 2023. Thanks for your wonderful story Peter about the creative process, imaginings and wonderings inspired by nature… a means to celebrate the unexpected, discoveries, stories and re-stories, and ultimately connect meaningfully with those around you; to heal in fine accompaniment.
Signal Hill.
A few summers ago I went to Newfoundland for my nephew's wedding. We visited Signal Hill National Historic Site for the famous view of St. John's harbour and the ocean. It's a spectacular place of fog and sun and wind and history. I opened my sketchbook and took out my travelling watercolour kit. Perched atop Signal Hill there's an iconic sandstone tower named for Cabot's arrival five hundred years ago. I imagined his ship sailing through the misty Narrows below, and how Marconi received the very first trans-Atlantic wireless message here centuries later
I appreciated the colourful flags, and watched the tourists wandering around. Clearly some were here against their will, while others like me were drinking it all in. A business woman sat down beside me and we began to chat while I painted.
We talked about Neo-Gothic architecture, fish and chips, and the dramatic setting all around us. We discovered that we'd both lost a parent recently, and agreed that it takes time to adapt. "Work and travel helps", she said. "So does a good wedding, and painting outdoors", I added. After a few cathartic tears she thanked me sincerely and bought the painting.
Sometimes I forget about the serendipitous power of art. It can be positively transformative. It comes in the form of music, dance, literature, photography, food, whatever. Something unexpected and new for the senses, done with intent and emotion. I try to remember this when I'm painting. Everyone has a voice. There's always a story to tell and you never really know how it's going to end.
I try to remember this when I'm painting. Everyone has a voice. There's always a story to tell and you never really know how it's going to end. 〰 Peter
Follow/Connect with Peter.
• Follow Peter and Water Bear Studio on IG @peter.gamble 〰 watercolourist, plein air artist, maker of paint
• Visual Arts Nova Scotia 〰 VAN Artist Profile Page
“For me, everything starts with a sketch. There’s always a story to tell and you never quite know how it’s going to end. I love the immediacy of graphite, charcoal and pastel. I love the handiness of watercolours, and the power of ink and acrylic media. All those pigments have history and chemistry. They make music for the eyes.”
CREDIT • All Art and Photos for the image collages and post provided by Peter Gamble.