Artist Profile: Peter Daniels

(Photo credit: John Urban and Big Dreamers United)

Peter (‘Pita’) Daniels is a Wisconsin artist and poet who lives in Viroqua with his family. In his own words, Daniels says “Painting helps me stay happy. I like layering lots of color and try to express what I am feeling at the time. I enjoy how this process can be meditative and soothing. Then when done, I find that looking at them can also be meditative and soothing.”

Who or what inspires you to write?

I am inspired by the unusual. I get to write about how I experience the world through poetry. And poetry helps me deal with unusual events of the past.

What have you gained or learned from participating in programming offered by Arts for All Wisconsin?

Arts for All Wisconsin has provided me a safe platform for my work. Plus, everyone at the organization has completely understood and supported me in ways that enable me to feel safe and valued on a personal level.

What have been some meaningful insights you have had about yourself or the world at large through writing poetry?

The most meaningful insight I have gained about myself through writing poetry is the realization that I have a voice. The way I experience the world is what it is. I can accept who I am, then go ahead and write. It's okay (because my voice matters too).