Peter Brown, often referred to as 'Pete the Street' for his penchant for painting en plein air, is a renowned British artist known for his vibrant cityscapes and landscapes. Born in Reading, England, in 1967, Brown discovered an early passion for drawing and painting. He pursued his interest in art through formal education, eventually completing his studies at Manchester Polytechnic (now Manchester Metropolitan University) with a degree in Fine Art.
After his graduation in 1990, Brown moved to Bath, a city that has frequently featured in his works. His dedication to painting outdoors in all weathers has become a defining characteristic of his career. Brown is especially noted for his ability to capture the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere in his paintings, which are often executed in impasto oil paint, applied with a palette knife to give a textural and lively surface to the work.
Throughout his career, Brown has exhibited widely in the United Kingdom and beyond. He has become a member of several prestigious art societies, including the New English Art Club and the Royal Society of Portrait Painters. His accolades include numerous awards, among them the Prince of Wales Award for Portrait Drawing and The Bath Prize. Brown’s artwork is held in high regard by collectors and the general public alike, resonating with those who appreciate his dynamic brushwork and his ability to capture the essence of urban life.
Despite his success, Brown has remained committed to the practice of painting en plein air, regardless of the challenges posed by the British weather or the bustling environment of city streets. His work continues to inspire both artists and art enthusiasts, contributing to the tradition of British landscape and cityscape painting. As of my knowledge cutoff date in 2023, Peter Brown is alive and continues to actively contribute to the contemporary art scene.
