Peter Barker is a Perth-based artist who studied classical realism techniques in Florence, Italy, and continued his studies as an assistant to master Norwegian figurative painter Odd Nerdrum. His work can be found in the Kerry Stokes collection and many private collections worldwide. He has exhibited extensively and been a finalist in numerous prestigious awards including the Lester Award, The Kilgour Art Award, and The A.M.E. Bale travelling scholarship. Peter runs and directs the Perth Art Academy, where he teaches traditional painting techniques. His featured artwork captures a friend’s son at the innocent age of adolescence—around 8 or 9—during that precious moment of freedom before societal pressures and life choices intervene. The portrait depicts the boy in a state of natural happiness, before the world’s complexities take hold. Peter believes supporting the arts is crucial for giving smaller, lesser-known local artists opportunities to be noticed alongside major acts.

Web: peterbarkerart.com
Instagram: @peterbarkerart