FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. By the time I see your new painting, it’s often sold. How do I get first crack at your latest original paintings?

A. I share my new work on-line via A Day in Vermont every other Monday. I post the painting and hit send at 10:30AM EST. This email newsletter goes to over 10,000 friends and collectors. Many factors outside my control can affect when, or even if, you actually receive the email. If you want to be among the very first to see the new painting, you can visit on my website at 10:30AM and refresh your screen. I also sell a fair number of original pieces directly from my studio, and usually have several new pieces in the works. Please consider a visit if you are in the area. I’m open by appointment. 

Q. How long does it take to complete a painting?

A. Six to eight hours for a typical 12X16 is the short answer. Time counts for little in art, at least mine. The preparation and planning can take longer than the execution. Ideas are the same way. Some come in a flash and others need plenty of incubation time. The actual painting may take as little as two or three hours, while most average about eight. Larger or more detailed paintings can take days. Many paintings are started on location (aka “En plein air”) and finished soon after in the studio. The forward momentum helps sustain the considerable energy and focus required. I find there is little correlation between the effort, time, and ultimate result. Some of my best work is done quickly. On the other hand, I have stacks of paintings that took me many hours to gradually ruin. I count all those as necessary practice.

Q. Do you do Commissions?

A. I did for many years but unfortunately, no longer. I had to make that difficult decision in order to commit 100% to my own work. Thank you for understanding!

Q. Do you teach?

A. While I no longer conduct formal classes, workshops, or private lessons, I do enjoy sharing what I have learned with others through my art work, A Day in Vermont, free videos, and the occasional demonstration. If you would like to discuss the possibility of a demonstration for your group, please contact me directly.

Q. I have a question about your methods or materials.

A. Please start here: Methods and Materials

Q. I really like what I see on my monitor. How will the original painting or print compare?

A. All monitors are different so it’s possible the colors will be slightly different. Based on the 100% positive and consistent feedback I have received over the course of hundreds of paintings and thousands of prints, you can expect the original or print to look great in person. Here is what one happy collector had to say…

“Peter’s Day in Vermont paintings that arrive in my email box are two weekly occurrences that I truly look forward to receiving. He often uses the term ‘juicy’ when referring to his colors and now he has added ‘yummy’ to describe his water media surface interests. The paintings on line give one a glimpse into these two descriptors, but when one holds these original paintings in hand the vibrancy, depth, and magic of the images are unparalleled. Whatever you feel when you preview these paintings online will only be enhanced and magnified when you are the winning bidder and hold the real original in your hands. I now have six of Peter’s Day in Vermont paintings and consider myself a proud and enthusiastic collector of his wondrous work. I will be giving some of them away as presents; but there are more of the paintings, with which I just couldn’t part, that will grace my walls.”  Sally D. Curtis, President Killington Arts Guild

Q. How do you ship Prints and Paintings and how much does it cost?

A. I use USPS or UPS to ship all orders unless alternate arrangements are made. My website is set up to make ordering (and shipping) as easy as possible for both you and I. Currently the system adds a flat shipping fee of $9.95 per order, and add state tax if applicable. If you have any questions regarding shipping, please don’t hesitate to ask. Alternatively if possible, please consider a visit to my studio to eliminate shipping altogether. I’m open by appointment and would love to see you.

Q. Do you make prints from your originals?

A. Most paintings are also offered as limited edition giclee prints. Please check my Print Gallery for availability. Just let me know if you have a question about a specific image.

Q. How do you decide what to paint?

A. I have a long list of things I want to paint, and I’m always looking for new locations and subjects. I often just hop in the truck and follow my muse. Subjects seem to choose me. There are few things more exciting than stumbling onto irresistible inspiration. Setting up my gear to commence work, my five senses vividly alive, my soul in exuberant activity, my heart beating in rhythm with the Universe. It’s an optimal experience indeed, and good art often results. Many ideas and suggestions for new paintings come from you. A Day in Vermont is one way for us to collaborate and create something beautiful together.

Q. How did A Day in Vermont start?

A. A Day in Vermont officially launched in March 2013. It’s built for friends who enjoy my work and love Vermont. We are celebrating and sharing the beauty of Vermont one painting at a time. How will it end? I don’t know…and that’s just the way I like it. I hope to have the privilege of painting a whole lot more, and sharing them with you.

Q. Do you accept invitations? I think you would love to paint our property.

A. I greatly appreciate and often accept invitations to visit private property with the freedom to explore.

Q. Do you work on site, from photos, from sketches, from memory, or your imagination?

A. Yes. All of the above and in combination. Like a symphony orchestra I will use one, some, or all instruments available to help me express the music in my heart. Working outdoors on location, completely dialed into nature, is always my prefered approach. It’s an optimal experience. At my best that authentic, fleeting spirit of joy and enthusiasm spills directly onto and into the painting. 

Q. If I buy an original painting from you (or any other artist) do I also own reproduction and image rights?

A. No. You will own an authentic, original painting. All work is protected by copyright and the artist retains all image rights. Physical reproduction is prohibited without the expressed written consent of the artist. That said, I’m a nice guy and very easy to work with. Specific requests for image use will be considered. Please contact me with any questions you may have.

Q. Can I use one of your images for my project?

A. It depends on the project. I’m happy to grant specific image use permission for most not-for-profit or community service type projects. Just drop me a note with your specific request.

Q. What do you call your style?

A. Robert Henri said; “Your style is the way you talk in paint.” I think if we have something personal, compelling and sincere to say, we will find our way to say it. That will be an authentic voice.  More about “style” here.