“The beautiful may be encountered under the most diverse aspects. As soon as it is found there it belongs to art, or rather, to the artist who knows how to see it there.”
Gustave Courbet, 1861
Peter Smets was born in 1962 in the Netherlands, in the small town of Koningslust.
At age 16, Peter undertook a fine art course at Maastrricht Art School, Holland, specialising in drawing, under Gerard Coenen. At 18, Peter studied colour under Rhien Van Poortvlied for a further 2 years, and then studied Still life and Portraiture under Jan Everson with associated studies in traditional realism under Jan Trepels.
Peter migrated to Australia in 1986 at the age of 24. Since arriving in Australia, Peter has had been involved in many exhibitions, being finalist and winner of many important art prizes. Peter’s work also features in many high-profile collections throughout the world.
Peter’s work operates as both narrative and strategy. A regular visitor to various in city building sites, Smets is in the habit of “scanning the general activity to see what catches the eye.” Back in the studio he meticulously reconstructs his source material to create works of astounding realism. The powerful impact of the final images owes as much to his profound understanding of formal composition as to his ‘in field’ sketches and photographs. His works are an intriguing combination of sharp realism and subtle hints of surrealism, as they possess a certain stillness and curious serenity.
Peter is an artist with immense talent and a social conscience which is often reflected in his work, resulting in art which is both beautiful and thought provoking.
Q & A
Were either of your parents or any of your siblings, artists?
Not my parents. I am the oldest of four. One brother and two twin sisters. My twin sisters are very artistic almost like me but they are not pursued to be an artist.
Around what age did you decide you wanted to be an artist? (I know you started studying art at age 16).
I have been drawing since I can remember and always stood out in class.
Why did you choose to become a professional artist?
I remember for the first time I sent my paintings to the gallery and they sold very quickly. That motivated me to keep going producing paintings as I always wanted to become a full time artist so my dream came true.
Any reason why you migrated to Australia? Was it to your pursue your art career?
Definitely for warmer weather, space and rugged but beautiful landscapes. The light is so much stronger and vivid, so different! That was the challenge for me to change my palette.
How would you describe your style of art?
I started to paint Australian landscapes and seascapes. Over time living on the Gold Coast (32 years) witnessing so many developments going on, the tools and construction are an art piece in my mind. Over time, evolution in technology has changed our daily lives which led me to different subjects.
Any Australian or International artists who you admire and have influenced your style/technique?
The old masters, in particular Rembrandt, Odd Nerdrum, Jeffrey Smart and James Gleeson.