Visit with Peter

Watch Peter Adams paint a wave in pastel and en plein air

Adams is a plein air painter and a signature member of the California Art Club, Pastel Society of America, and Plein-Air Painters of America, as well as a master signature member of the Oil Painters of America

Peter Adams in his studio with works in progress.
Photo Credit: Brandon Kalpin

“Although I generally complete 90% of my plein air landscape paintings on location, it’s the last 10% that I do at my studio easel that I feel is my personal interpretation as an artist. The quiet time that I spend in my studio allows me the opportunity to contemplate the poetic essence of a subject. My object is not to focus on every detail of a scene, but to capture its spirit.”

Peter and Elaine on a plein air painting excursion to Mt. Wilson with
their dogs, from left to right, Panda, Jaipur and Smoochie.
Photo Credit: Lisa Cavelier

“The San Gabriel Mountains are just ten minutes from where we live in Pasadena. I feel so fortunate to be able to quickly get out of the city and into wilderness. All throughout these mountains, which peak at 10,000 feet, are countless points of interest, magnificent vistas, and an abundance of natural beauty. Hiking in the San Gabriels, I’ve come across all sorts of evidence of man’s productivity, including abandoned gold mines, neglected bridges, and remnants of what was once a grand funicular that led up to a fashionable lodge, hotel and even a zoo. In this photo, we are on top of Mt. Wilson where one can find giant radio antennas and the Carnegie Observatories, including solar towers and a 100-inch telescope. Here, my wife Elaine and I are hiking our way up to Echo Rock from where I plan to do some painting of vast canyon vistas. Of course, our dogs are with us for encouragement.”

Elaine and Peter having tea on the studio deck.
© 2004 magnus stark/photography

“With our busy schedules, Elaine and I rarely have a chance to sit quietly alone just to chat. So, we set aside two hours each Wednesday when we can meet in solitude to review our calendar, discuss plans, and share ideas.”