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For painter Peter Campbell, light is never merely observed — it is felt. Known for landscapes that balance quiet realism with deep emotional presence, Campbell approaches painting as an act of sustained attention rather than intention. Winter, with its slower pace and contemplative atmosphere, becomes a natural extension of that practice, offering the time and mental space required for larger, more immersive works. In this conversation with Ann Korologos Gallery, Campbell reflects on painting without agenda, the elusive state of mind necessary for meaningful work, and the challenge of capturing not just what a winter landscape looks like, but how its light truly feels — an approach that resonates deeply within the spirit of Gathering Light, on view at Ann Korologos Gallery January 8-29, 2026.
The concept of “Gathering Light” is very apt for a painter. It is the basis of what we do in the sense that we collect light and replicate it on canvas.
The term “Seeing things in a different light” reveals that the quality of light changes how we feel and process things. The crisp light of midday has a totally different feel than a warm sunset or a cloudy afternoon. I like to try and capture that change where things are happening, like light creeping in after the clouds break or the final moments of sunset that disappears so quickly. These are moments we all relate to, and being able to capture that light that evokes something internal is the root of the challenge.
I often think of one of my college professors and his favorite phrase, “As artists, we collect information.” And not in some random way, but with intention. Making thumbnail sketches is the fastest and most intimate way for me to do that. A one- or two-minute little sketch can be used to recall a ton of information and bring you back to something fleeting. I think it is important that every scene is a personal interpretation but it speaks universally. Like good music.
Anyone can paint a tree and snow, but can they paint the feel of the light with those trees and that snow? Winter is when I naturally spend more time in the studio. It is conducive to focusing on larger works that get the time of contemplation. I don’t ever have any real agenda (to the frustration of friends and family) when it comes to time and painting. They come of their own accord, and I just give them my attention rather ruthlessly. There is a particular state of mind that one has to be present in order for painting to work. It is being present somewhere else, which sounds contradictory, but it’s the only way I can describe it.
Learn more about Peter Campbell and view available works here.
