Peter Leckett

Peter Leckett’s contemporary landscapes capture the dynamic spirit of the Ottawa Valley and Gatineau Hills. Born near Ottawa in the 1950s, he transitioned from a career in software engineering to fine art, studying at the Ottawa School of Art. A member of OSA, CSPWC, and SCA, Leckett’s work balances detailed representation with expressive brushwork, revealing vivid realism through economy of stroke and strong composition.OSA, CSPWC, SCA

Peter Leckett’s contemporary landscapes capture the dynamic essence of the Ottawa Valley and the Gatineau Hills. Raised in the ever-changing climate of the north, he found inspiration in the diverse and rugged terrain of Canada.

Born on the fringes of Ottawa in the 1950s, Peter exhibited a knack for drawing early on. Despite being drawn to an artistic career, he opted to pursue a degree in mathematics from the University of Waterloo. His passion for art persisted, leading him to attend various classes and workshops, particularly at the Ottawa School of Art. Following a successful tenure as a software engineer, he has now turned to a second career as a visual artist.

Peter holds memberships in several prestigious societies, including the Society of Canadian Artists (SCA), the Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour (CSPWC), and most recently, the Ontario Society of Artists (OSA).

Peter’s work stands out for his skill in capturing intricate landscapes with an impressive brevity of expression. Initially, the artwork seems detailed and representational. Upon closer inspection, it reveals a charming interplay of assured brushstrokes and creative markings. His keen perception and robust sense of composition, paired with a distinctive painting style, evoke vivid realism from minimal brushwork. The observer is captivated by both the natural scene’s beauty and the artistry’s straightforward execution.



Artist’s Statement

My artwork typically begins with live models. For landscapes, I engage in plein air painting to capture the essence of the scene. My goal is to effectively respond to the subject matter and environment. I work quickly to establish the basic forms and structure. The ability to make expressive marks, coupled with strong drawing skills and a good sense of design, is essential.

Once back in the studio, I revisit the work to align it with my artistic vision. Sometimes it stands as is, but more often, it requires fine-tuning. Through a process of trial and error, I refine the composition. This process is repetitive. Photography is used exclusively to record the progress of the artwork, mainly for updates on social media. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are crucial for receiving feedback, which shapes the direction and caliber of my work. They also provide inspiration and a humbling perspective through the works of fellow artists. Indeed, it is a remarkable time to be an artist.

I am constantly inspired by the unique interplay of light and shadow, the ephemeral quality of a moment, and the delicate balance between form and essence. These elements compel me to paint and drive the creative process forward. This approach not only makes my art distinctive but also reflects a deeply personal engagement with the world around me.