Peter Campbell Saunders

Born in North London 1968, Peter is not one to be compartmentalized however his most recent works tend to be impressionist, figurative compositions, using either acrylics, oils or mixed media on canvas. He utilizes many atelier techniques, developed from studying “The Old Masters” and favourites such as Hopper, Degas and Sickert, from whom he draws great inspiration. Peter grew up in North London with his diligent working-class parents and from a very early age developed a love of the arts, particularly music, fashion, photography, writing and painting. Encouraged by his parents and peers, to employ his creative talents, in 1986 Peter enrolled at Central St Martin’s College of Art and Design. He graduated with an honours degree in Graphic Design and Post artschool, through hard work and determination, Peter secured a position as a magazine designer. He continued in this field for over twenty years as an art director and later as a photographer where his professional reputation grew, obtaining contracts with publications such as Vogue, Tatler, Brides, The Sunday Times, The Express, Equire and John Lewis etc... giving him the opportunity to work with and capture many prominent and distinguished individuals.

Eventually yearning for a greater work/family life balance, Peter embarked on a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), qualifying as a teacher of Art and Design in 2007. This enabled Peter to pass on his skills and enthusiasm for Art and Photography to his many students and spend quality time with his family.

One of Peter’s greatest influences is his father. After sadly losing his father to illness in his late teens, which for Peter was an influential time, he used his artistic talents as a form of therapy and escapism to maintain good mental health. Admiration and memories of his father have influenced past paintings of nineteen-forties film noir and artistic connections with by-gone eras. Additionally, as a way of remembering his father, Peter states he includes a part of him in many of his paintings,which will not always be apparent to the viewer.