The Bay and More Recent Work by Ross Pfeffer

This is Ross Pfeffer’s second exhibition at CAN and builds on the themes established early last year; Join Ross to celebrate the opening of his exhibition Friday 03 Jan 5-7pm all welcome!

"I have focused on paintings depicting the wonderful scenery of the Hawkes Bay where I now live, and some paintings of Wellington which has now been relegated to visitor status. This exhibition also features a range of other subjects including number of ballet inspired paintings (of Misty Copeland). My subject matter is changing and this time I have included a painting showing Greta Thunberg with some notable people with varied views on climate change."

While Ross likes to paint landscapes, people are starting to dominate. He paints in oil on canvas exclusively in a realistic style with an impressionistic touch. While Ross admires the impressionists (Renoir, Degas and Monet are favourites) his own style is what comes naturally to him. With landscapes Ross paints quickly and more expressively, and with people he is more considerate.

"I have been painting full time now for some four years and the immense enjoyment continues. Self taught I believe the more I paint the better I get. I paint in my studio from several photos for each work. I move things around and try to create my own mood, a composition that is balanced, to inject more than is possible with a photograph, to capture the spirit of the scene, the person, the moment and the light."

Ross’s palette is becoming much more and more restricted; Alizarine Blue Lake, Prussian Blue, Quinacridone Magenta, Cadmium Lemon, Burnt Sienna, and Iodoethene green always featuring with Titanium White. He usually completes a quick under painting in restricted colour and come back to it when its dry and can be oiled out for a second, or third layer, interplaying the previous.

"How long a painting takes is completely random it seems, from a few hours (rarely) to many days."

Ross’s ambition is simple; to continue with his passion for painting, to see where the journey takes him in terms of style, impact and difference. Join Ross to celebrate the opening of his exhibition on Friday 3 January, 5-7pm. All welcome! Light refreshments will be served.