“Period”, Album Cover, 2013
Briefly describe the work you do.
The fact that I don’t know where I/we came from inspires me to try and understand why I/we am/are here. Cliche as it sounds, becoming an artist is a journey not a destination. I believe that to evolve as an artist is to pour everything about yourself into a funnel to see what comes out the other side.
The concept of the “artist studio” has a broad range of meanings, especially in contemporary practice. The idea of the artist toiling away alone in a room may not necessarily reflect what many artists do from day to day anymore. Describe your studio practice and how it differs from (or is the same as) traditional notions of “being in the studio.”
I’m inspired by everything all of the time so I like to think that my studio is wherever. I’ve never had a traditional studio space, but it’s something I’d like to consider someday—not necessarily as dedicated area to actually create art, but a unique space to hang out and talk about creating art.
“Pencils”, Dropping 1 of 1,000 custom pencils at The John Lennon Wall in Prague, 3.25″ each, 2013
What unique roles do you see yourself as the artist playing that you may not have envisioned yourself in when you first started making art?
When do you find is the best time of day to make art? Do you have time set aside every day, every week or do you just work whenever you can?
I work just about everyday at random times. I track my hours as either creative art making or logistical B.S.. If the latter is greater than the former, it’s time to adjust.
IR Sketchbook Censored web
How has your work changed in the last five years? How is it the same?
A couple years ago I stopped worrying about what other people were doing or thinking and everything has been a lot more fun since then. I still think too much.
Are there people such as family, friends, writers, philosophers or even pop icons that have had an impact on the work you do?
Absolutely!
If you had an occupation outside of being an artist, what would that be and why?
A foreign diplomat for an island nation in the South Pacific from one of the following countries: Austria, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland.
About
Neal Calvin Peterson is an artist and musician based in Minneapolis.
All images copyright of the artist and used with their permission.
365 Artists | 365 Days 