Bob Peak: "Don't be an artist 'from the wrist down'"

"In the beginning, during my first period in New York, I realized I was on the wrong track when I tried to shape my style to commercial demands. I studied the works of illustrators who had done this; they were very successful for a year or two and then dropped from the scene."



"It was apparent to me that an artist should not spend years developing a style which, in terms of demand, would quickly pass. In other words, he should not be an artist 'from the wrist down'."



"Also, he isn't wise to allow his work to be pigeon-holed so that he becomes known as a fashion or sports or editorial specialist. Creativity depends on variety."



"For me, drawing comes first. I like to draw, and I believe in being a good draughtsman."



"Though I use many media and techniques, I don't approve of using a technique for its own sake by pushing it as far as possible to see what interesting effects can be achieved. Each problem will have its own aspects. I choose the technique and medium which will be most expressive and accurate."



"Recently I've discovered I love to paint, to work with forms."



"I use a variety of media: charcoal, grease crayon on acetate, oils, dyes and designer's colors, crayons, and, for texture, salt on wet washes."



I use color for mood and expressiveness. Some of the things I do are calm, but most are not, so I prefer strong colors. Grays don't work too well for me."



"If things are bright, it is a time for brightness."

~ From an interview with Bob Peak in the September 1962 issue of American Artist magazine.

Conluded tomorrow...

* Many thanks to Heritage Auctions. The football image and parrots image are from their archives and used with permission.

* My Bob Peak Flickr set.

* Bob Peak official website

* Bob Peak official blog

* the Sanguin Fine Art Gallery