Peter Dakota Shalit
abstract acrylic artist
Peter’s educational background is eclectic. He first accepted an engineering scholarship from Syracuse University, but graduated with a BA in psychology with minors in anthropology and philosophy, taking many math and art courses along the way.
After an internship as a graphic designer for products such as Mario Badescu, Peter moved to China and studied Eastern philosophy and practices such as tai chi, qi gong, yoga, and reiki. Upon returning to the United States, he worked as the program coordinator and meditation leader at Ramapo College, giving mindfulness lectures to groups of 300+, facilitating teacher development programs for K-12 educators and administrators, and leading silent meditation retreats. Additionally, he is a certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction instructor and conducted courses at Ramapo while pursuing a Master of Social Work degree which included work as a clinical counselor for at risk populations, as well as in hospice and grief counseling. Peter sees art and mindfulness as ways in which to connect to Life. Be here now my friends, it is the only moment that truly ever exists.
Artist Statement
“Letting go” is central to Peter’s life and art process. Surrendering to the flow of life is akin to surrendering to the flow of colors and movements on canvas, letting go of controlling the outcomes, and encouraging an organic unfolding of creation.
His works are “Co-creations,” a living relationship between himself and the painting. He enjoys a deep presence while leaning into the idea of letting the work create itself. His work is not random or passive, but done with great attention. If the creative flow lulls, having the awareness to allow for time and space for a later moment of connection. His paintings honor the balance between action and space. Rather than setting out to create something specific, letting it evolve of it own accord. The creation process is more an act of listening than expatiating.
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