Peter Leckett OSA, SCA, CSPWC

Peter Leckett's contemporary landscapes capture the dynamic essence of the Ottawa Valley and the Gatineau Hills. Raised in the ever-changing climate of the north, he found inspiration in the diverse and rugged terrain of Canada.

Born on the fringes of Ottawa in the 1950s, Peter exhibited a knack for drawing early on. Despite being drawn to an artistic career, he opted to pursue a degree in mathematics from the University of Waterloo. His passion for art persisted, leading him to attend various classes and workshops, particularly at the Ottawa School of Art. Following a successful tenure as a software engineer, he has now turned to a second career as a visual artist.

Peter holds memberships in several prestigious societies, including the Society of Canadian Artists (SCA), the Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour (CSPWC), and most recently, the Ontario Society of Artists (OSA).

  • Artists Statement

    I prefer to begin my work from live models. In the case of landscape, more often than not, this starts with a plein air painting. My focus at that point is to record and respond to the subject matter and environment as best I can. Working quickly, masses are blocked in and the basic structure is expressed. Mark making plays an important part as do good drawing skills and a sense of design.

    Once back in the studio, I begin modifying the work as I see fit. Sometimes no modifications are needed. However, usually this isn't the case so a few tweaks are often required. I begin to coax imagery out through a process of trial and error. And this is where the magic tends to happen. I never use photographs and instead rely on my knowledge of subject matter gained through years of observation and sketching. Imagination is key.

    And so we repeat the process. As I mentioned, I don’t use photography other than to record the progress of the work, mostly for posting on social media. Both Instagram and Facebook are important sounding boards for me. Posting work provides invaluable feedback on direction and quality. And social media provides inspiration (and humility) by following the work of others. It is truly a wonderful time to be an artist.

  • Exhibitions

    • 2024 - Annual Smalls Exhibition, Koyman Galleries, Ottawa
    • 2024 - SCA Elected Members Juried Exhibition, Montreal2023 - SCA International Juried Online Exhibition
    • 2022 - OSA Ambient Landscapes, 150th Anniversary Members Exhibition, Art Gallery of North Humberland, Cobourg
    • 2016 - CSPWC Ontario East Members Show, Brockville Arts Centre, Brockville
    • 2013 - SCA National Open,45th National Open Juried Exhibition, Ogilvy Centre, Montreal
    • 2013 - SCA Members Show, Joseph D. Carrier Gallery, Toronto
    • 2009 - Ottawa International Airport
    • 2008 - CSPWC - Open Water - John B. Aird Gallery, Toronto
    • 2007 - Ottawa Watercolour Society - Cube Gallery, Ottawa
    • 2006 - Society of Canadian Artists - Ogilvy Centre - Montreal
    • 2005 - Society of Canadian Artists - Ogilvy Centre, Ottawa

  • Publications

    • 2002 - International Artist - Oct/Nov issue 2002

  • Elections

    • 2020 - Ontario Society of Artists (OSA)
    • 2011 - Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour (CSPWC)
    • 2002 - Society of Canadian Artists (SCA)

  • Academia

    • 1980 - B. Math - University of Waterloo

  • Representation

    • Koyman Galleries, 1771 St. Laurent Blvd., Ottawa, Ontario, K1G 3V4 
    • Viva Vida Art Gallery, 278 Lakeshore Road, suite #2, Pointe-Claire, QC, H9S 4K9