PETER FREISCHLAG

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Peter's adventure into the world of art began in the quiet corners of his childhood home. Born as the youngest of three children, he often found solace in solitude, creating imaginary worlds and embarking on creative adventures of his own design. This early propensity for dreaming and imaginative play laid the foundation for an artistic spirit that would later define his professional life.

Despite his deep-rooted artistic inclinations, Peter’s educational path was diverse and extensive. Holding an undergraduate degree in special education, a master’s in behavior, another in leadership, and even a doctorate in philosophy, he has navigated through various fields. What stands out, however, is that Peter is proudly self-taught in his artistic pursuits—a testament to his natural talent and determination.

Throughout his life, Peter’s creativity has found multiple outlets, whether in teaching or athletics. Yet, the spark of art never dimmed. It was a consistent presence, waiting for the right moment to be fully realized.  His artistic journey was not a sudden epiphany but a gradual unfolding,  nurtured by his unique experiences and innate ability to envision and execute creative ideas.

A pivotal influence in Peter’s journey has been Deb, who dared him in 1986 to paint a piece they admired but couldn't afford—a piece that still hangs in his studio in Arizona. Deb’s unwavering encouragement and support have been instrumental in Peter’s bold and daring artistic path. As his sage, she has critiqued, reviewed,  and embraced his every step, making her influence clear and profound.  Additionally, Peter's family, including his sons Kyle and Cody and his older sister Julie (his biggest fan and collector), has provided immense support, allowing his journey to unfold with their encouragement.

Peter’s work is characterized by a whimsical yet precise approach, inspired by what he finds "fun" to paint and the potential outcomes he envisions.  His creative process is meticulously thought out—from the initial vision that includes size, color use, and flow, to the actual execution.  Utilizing a limited palette of around seven colors, Peter’s technique is both free-flowing and exacting. With the best paper from France and brushes from Russia, he begins with a light pencil sketch. The piece then takes shape in a single wash, mounted on a wooden panel, and sealed with a beeswax resin—a process he perfected over three years with help from his supportive "tribe" of fellow artists.

His path to professional recognition features an interesting paradox: Peter realized he had become a professional when he understood the importance of collaboration over competition. His tribe of artists has been instrumental in opening doors and fostering opportunities, making his accomplishments a collective endeavor rather than a solitary pursuit.

One of the unique aspects of Peter's art is his innovation in creating large-scale watercolors without glass, pushing traditional boundaries and offering a fresh perspective in the field. His work has been featured in prominent venues such as the Arizona Fine Art Expo, Anticus  Gallery in Scottsdale, The Sundry Gallery in Moab, and The Zandee  Gallery in Steamboat Springs. His pieces have adorned the walls of institutions ranging from Johns Hopkins University to Wake Forest, and numerous restaurants and offices. Among his accolades, Peter takes particular pride in hanging the world's two largest privately owned watercolors and receiving numerous awards and distinctions across the  United States.