Three years ago, Peter Nigel Estes coined the term “vibrant impressionism” to describe his new technique. “I started using a palette knife rather than brushes,” he says. “It was a big turning point in my method and my output as well.” Feeling more vibrant himself than be- fore, Estes also changed color palettes at that time, and his reception has been exceptional ever since.
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Using acrylic paint in gel, the Daniel Island-based artist is cur- rently working on a new series that incorporates scenes from Porgy and Bess and, in gen- eral, more Charleston-specific scenery. “That’s been another turn for me over the past year, because it’s such an awesome place to paint.” Estes has been represented by Lowcountry Artists Gallery on East Bay Street since January. You can also find Estes’ work on Saturday evenings at the Night Market on Market Street down- town, at Piccolo Spoleto and via his website.
