Peter Cerreta: GOLA's artist for the month

Palm Coast Observer
Neighbors

“You call this art?” a student joked with Peter Cerreta Friday, Jan 8, at the Gallery of Local Art.

Cerreta was honored as the featured artist at GOLA for the month of January.

“It means a great deal to me because it’s in my home county,” Cerreta said. “I’m dedicated to the expansion of art in this county.”

Cerreta’s background in counseling psychology has a direct influence in his work, and he uses painting to tell a story. His painting, “Come on Ladies, Time is Money,” depicts prostitution in New York City and was once kicked out of a gallery because it was thought to be too racy, despite the fully clothed women represented in the work.

“Viewers come to a painting with their own perception,” Cerreta said. “I like ambiguity. I always put some imperfection in my work.”

Revisiting his psychology background, Cerreta said he likes to ask viewers what they think the artist meant.

“I like to be both serious and whimsical in my work,” Ceretta said. “All my life I have had responsibilities and obligations. Now I am free to do my art.”

GOLA curator Audrey Scherr said it’s always exciting to find an artist who does something different.

“Any reputable gallery would be happy to feature Peter Cerreta,” Scherr said. “He’s well known in the area — his works are different and exciting.”

For more on GOLA, visit www. galleryoflocalart.com.