Pederson decided early in his life to immerse himself in the arts. He received a degree in music performance playing the bassoon, and while he was at Chapman University, he also began studying the visual arts. After college, Pederson felt he had lost his unique voice as an artist, and he took a two-decade break to dedicate himself to exploring the world and his place in it. This time of discovery led him back to visual art, and his discoveries resulted in artworks that are uniquely and recognizably his.

Because of this history, personal voice is the essence of Pederson’s art. His mixed media artworks are created with intense immediacy reflecting the present moment in the artist’s mind and emotional state. Pederson takes his daily experiences, distractions, and perceptions, and in what the artist calls “a messy state of euphoria,” converts them into color, line, texture and words. Working outdoors in natural light, the resulting compositions are filled with movement, spontaneity, and complex layers. Pederson’s work has a graphic, urban feel, as well as the playfulness of certain types of animation. His work has been shown widely in the Western United States.

“Pederson” opens on December 16 with an artist’s reception from 6:30 to 9pm at The Walter Art Gallery, 6425 E. Thomas Road and runs through January 20 when there will be a closing reception at the same time and location. Join us for a lively evening of art and fun! During shows the gallery is also open Tuesdays from 11 – 1pm, Wednesdays 6 – 8pm, and Thursdays noon to 2pm, except for holidays. We are also happy to make appointments for private showings. Email us at gallery@thewalterhive.org.