South Dakota artist Tim Peterson captivated the audience with an open showcase titled “Illuminated Noir” at the South Dakota Art Museum earlier this month.
The Art Museum showed Peterson’s tranquil oil pastel and watercolor pieces for 85 days (Jan.11 through April 6). The exhibition included 34 pieces of his nocturne (night) work and bright watercolor creations.
Between the time Peterson sent a letter to Taylor McKeon, curator of collections and exhibitions at the museum, to the time that the pieces were set up in January, it took nearly two years.
Members of the community, students and Peterson family members make the trek from Sturgis to experience the exhibit and visit with Peterson. The atmosphere mirrored an animated and fun environment.
“My professor said if I come here, go to the talk, and write down something you learned, I could get extra credit,” said freshman Logan Tyndall, a wildlife & fisheries major.
Drinks and snacks were available to guests admiring the fine detailed artwork hanging on the museum walls.
At 6 p.m., Taylor McKeon introduced Peterson to the audience, and he began his presentation.
He began by giving background about himself and talking about his first piece, “Bunnies.” He then talked about how not long after graduation he was able to use his art degree by working at a sign company.
This piece was recognized by the museum in the 1980s.
“My first real significant art award was for “Bunnies,” Peterson said. “It’s a colored pencil drawing that was given a purchase prize by the South Dakota Art Museum. So, my association with the museum goes back to 1981.”
He touched on the numerous workshops he has taught, emphasizing the fine/handmade art that he specializes in. All his paintings are inspired by things he has seen and/or experienced.
“I have been privileged to paint in some really wonderful locations,” said Peterson.
Peterson’s slideshow features a picture displaying one of his nocturn pieces called “Two Cat Night.” He painted in 2016 using pastels on paper.
“I personally think the pastel pieces are his best work,” said sophomore construction management major Derek Maas. “The moody and night settings popped out to me the most.”
The piece was done up in Spearfish Canyon by the runoff of a small lake long after the sun had set. He used a headlamp to illuminate the easel in front of him to get every stroke of the brush just right. All alone capturing every fine detail of the landscape.
“I listened to my senses, packed up my gear, and started to drive back down Spearfish Canyon,” Peterson said. “A couple of miles from the painting location, and there’s two full-grown mountain lions standing in the middle of the road.”
Long inspired by Edward Hopper’s works, Tim talks about some of his pieces that reflect his idol’s style. Edward Hopper’s piece titled “Circle Theatre” was the reference for Peterson’s pastel nocturne painting “Valley Corner Night,” which covers up the name of the store, leaving a few letters to be seen.
“His work is very important to me,” Peterson said.
Peterson moved on to talk about how he set up his easel to suit the medium of art that he is working with. It is important to get what he needs in a 2-hour time frame. He introduced this rule to make up for the movement of shadows when sketching for future paintings.
“I kept being surprised, learning about how he does not photograph them. It is truly quite impressive,” said Nancy Lyons, Community Member, Member of the Artists Guild.
For those who missed the event over the weekend, they can still see Tim Peterson’s artwork in the 11th South Dakota Governor’s Biennial Art Exhibition.
His piece “Shelter” (2024) uses watercolor on paper to depict musky or old trailer homes under a brilliant blue sky.
“Hearing the artist explain and render reality in his paintings. Gives me a different perspective after listening,” said Jeanne Manzer, an attendee of the event.
The Museum was very happy with the turnout for the event.
“The turnout was similar to what we experienced in the past,” McKeon said. “Familiar museum supporters attended and many people who admired Tim’s work or knew him personally. I know there were people attending who came solely because Tim’s subject matter and/or techniques spoke to them.”
