Robert Petersen

My photographs explore nature in a detail or abstract manner. From my "Coastal waterway" images that are an abstract interpretation of the natural energy and repetitive nature of the landscape, to my “Floral” images that use a narrow depth of field and selective detail to harness the organized chaos of nature.

I spend much of my time observing before actually photographing to find an inspirational subject at just the right time. With my waterway images, it is being patient with the light, wind, water flow and tides all to come together. With the floral images it’s when the bloom is opening, and without dew or rain marks. Or when the light and wind all cooperate with my vision. I don’t have the opportunity to recreate the moment, only the opportunity to capture and translate it.

I print my limited edition prints on a textured rag cotton paper to push the photographic image to favor the feel of a hand applied medium. This method causes the image to go beyond the expected to create a contemplative impact in viewers with simple images that evoke emotion.

I donate for every limited edition print in the “Coastal waterways” series to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the “Floral” series to the Norfolk Botanical Garden to emphas...

Petersen received a BFA in Visual Communication Design and Illustration from Kent State University with a curriculum including film photography that has provided a base for his current use of digital medium format photography. His illustration minor developed a keen sense of detail and composition. As an advertising Creative Director for over 30 years working on regional and national accounts, Petersen has won over 75 creative advertising awards. As a Creative Director, he has collaborated with renown commercial photographers. Exploring creative self-growth now leads his current path in photography, blending his fine art and advertising art background.

Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Boardwalk Art Show, June 2018, Virginia Beach, VA
Plant Zero Café, Plant Zero Art Center, August/October 2018, Richmond, VA
Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) "Waterways exhibit", October 2018, Virginia Beach, VA
Norfolk Botanical Garden, (Upcoming) May/June 2019, Norfolk, VA