Each month, we're shining a spotlight on one of the talented artists in our new Iron Horse Artist Bureau — and this month we are proud to spotlight Mona Peterson!

Mona has been an art educator for over 40 years and has spent nearly as long creating commissioned watercolors. Her work has been featured in several community art shows, most recently a pop-up gallery show at a local brewery.

Rather than painting exact likenesses, Mona captures the moments, feelings, and emotions of a time and place, blending abstract and realistic techniques to create work that stands on its own — not simply because of who it depicts. While people are her most common subject, she doesn't consider herself a portrait painter in the traditional sense; she's drawn to the universal stories a painting can tell. Working from photographs — whether provided by a client or her own — she especially loves the contrast that outdoor lighting brings to a piece.

If you're looking for a watercolor artist for a commission, reach out to Mona to start the conversation.

Above: Cousins on the Beach by Mona Peterson

Join the Artist Bureau

Are you an artist looking for more visibility and connection? The Artist Bureau is the place for you! For just $40 per year, you'll be part of a growing community of artists whose work we actively promote and celebrate.