CH.89: If you were to categorize or describe the style of your artwork, what would it be and why?

CP: Painting is the best I can come up with. I’m a little hesitant to apply a label to myself but openly encourage everyone out there to label the work for me.

CH.89: Where do you draw your inspiration from?

CP: Mostly anger but a little history, art, literature, philosophy, humor and absurdity.

CH.89: Can you talk a little bit about what your creative thought process is like when starting a new project/ piece of artwork?

CP: Existential angst,  confusion and self doubt until three quarters of the way through the body of work. Then one day things seem to click and I continue making with ease. Usually its because I’ve exhausted myself with the whole doubting process and just given into the show, being what it is.

CH.89: Is there anything in particular that you would want people to take from your artwork?

CP: I’d like them to have a reaction and to engage with it on a critical level.

CH.89: Can you talk a little bit about your lifestyle as an artist and what that is like?

CP: I wake up at 4AM every day to paint. I work for 5 hours, then go off to a 9 to 5 job. I also have 3 small kids. So life is full but exciting.

CH.89: When starting out an artistic task, do you think it is better to have a particular direction/set plan guiding your way? Or, is it better to act on impulse and go from there?

CP: For me planning everything out can feel stifling.  I work in a more emotional way, letting the work and ideas unfold throughout the process.

CH.89: What is one major lesson you’ve learned as an artist thus far?

CP: Im always striving to trust my instincts, create and not edit through self doubt. The worst place to be as an artist is stagnated by fear.

CH.89: Do you regard personal style & taste to be of highest importance?

CP: No, I think there are many things in life that are more important. All that goes out the window when you get old and have kids.

CH.89: What do you consider to be the hardest thing about being an artist?

CP: The fact that you’re born with the burden of trying to extract meaning out of life and for whatever reason prove to the world that you exist.

CH.89: What is one thing you love about being an artist?

CP: The challenge and struggle and then having something in the end to show for it.

CH.89: Is there anyone in particular, any artist’s that inspire you in any way?

CP: My brother Leigh LeDare. Its interesting to have the similar experiences in the world resulting in two unique voices.

CH.89: What do you think of technology in terms of being a useful tool for artists today?

CP: I’m all for it.

CH.89: Do you think being an artist allows you to view the world differently from those who don’t follow creative paths?

CP: Sure, I think artists have a sensitivity that some other people don’t have.

CH.89: Do you enjoy traveling? If so, do you have a favorite city?

CP: I’ve had great times all around the world and want to experience every city.

CH.89: Do you have a favorite author or book?

CP: I like Kurt Vonnegut and Jerzy Kosinski.

CH.89: Any future goals or plans for your artwork?

CP: Just keep making,

CH.89: What does being an artist mean to you?

CP: Be honest to yourself.

CH.89: Any last words on the aesthetic of your artwork?

 CP: Enjoy.

CHECK OUT MORE ON: CLEON PETERSON