In Loving Memory: Peter Fraser

Peter Fraser, December 5, 1946 - May 31, 2023

Peter Fraser, December 5, 1946 - May 31, 2023

Peter Fraser, a talented artist, loving father, and deeply curious individual, passed away on May 31, 2023, at 8:07pm in Victoria BC. Born on December 5, 1946 in Ottawa, Peter lived an unusual life that included moving often while growing up in the United States, hosting a radio show in the middle east, building his own sailboat, working as a fixed-wing and helicopter pilot, raising children in Haida Gwaii and Lillooet, and creating endlessly interesting artwork throughout his lifetime.

While always interested in creating art, Peter dedicated himself to artistic expression in a greater way when he enrolled in the Fine Arts program at Emily Carr College of Art and Design in Vancouver, British Columbia, from 1991 to 1994. He delved into the realms of self-taught wood carvings, hand-built ceramic sculpture, and stone sculpture, honing his skills and nurturing his love for artistic creation. Following this, in 2004, he began incorporating digital photography and computer software into his artistic expression.

Sun Forest Rain Forest Mask, Peter Fraser

Peter's artistic vision found its inspiration in the natural world that surrounded him. Whether it was the mountains surrounding him in Lillooet, the ever-changing sky, or bodies of water, he sought to better understand and connect to the Earth's environment through his work. Photographs of the natural world became integral components of his collage works, weaving together elements of humanity and nature, inviting viewers to reflect upon the profound interconnectedness between ourselves and the world around us.

Thermal Heart, Peter Fraser

Night Mask, Peter Fraser

The concept of the "Vessel" held a central place in Peter's artistic exploration. This theme manifested in various forms, such as his sculptural "Bowl" works and the evocative "Kayak" series. With their ribbed structures, these pieces served as reminders of our own bodies, the vessels that carry our individual lives. Peter invited us to contemplate our interconnectedness with the Earth, writing “The Earth, too, is a vessel that holds us, and we may realize that we are fully a part of, and not separate from, this Earth, and further, this wondrous, and mysterious Universe. These are vessels that make our existential presence a possibility, a fact, and an amazement.”

Prophet River Voyage, Peter Fraser

Moon Over Tuya, Peter Fraser

Awakened Universe BEING, Peter Fraser

Awakened Universe BEING, Peter Fraser

Hibiscus Moment, Peter Fraser

Peter’s work also ventured into exploring the interplay of symmetry, chaos, and natural imagery. By blending "natural" or chaotic elements into single and double-dimensional symmetries, he revealed captivating patterns.

Mitochondrial Matriaarch, Peter Fraser

Mitochondrial Matriarch, Peter Fraser

Continuum, Peter Fraser

Witnessing Being Elemental, Peter Fraser

His fascination with color and pixels led him to magnify digital images to the depths of pixels, uncovering mesmerizing transition-fields between colors. This exploration exposed the unseen world of pixels.

Emily Saw a Magical World, Peter Fraser

Elements of Colour Pixel Field, Peter Fraser

Peter also created a body of work centered around "shamans." These enigmatic figures, often depicted in quick and spontaneous line drawings, are often found explaining the world and its mysteries to anyone willing to listen. Their toe and finger counts are not disciplined and they seem to require ribs, antlers, and a backdrop of stars.

Being Stardancing With Flying Vessel, Peter Fraser

You Shine In The Shine, Peter Fraser

Amidst his dedication to art, Peter found immense joy in his role as a father. He was a loving presence in the lives of his two children, Noah and Tegan, as well as his three step-children, Leif, Anna-Raye, and Phillip. His deep kindness and accepting nature was deeply appreciated by friends and family alike.

For many years, Peter lived in the beautiful landscapes of Sandspit, Haida Gwaii and later in Lillooet in the South-Interior of the province, immersing himself in the natural beauty that surrounded him. These places served as constant inspiration for his artwork, reflecting the deep connection he felt with the world around him. We love you Peter.