Artist John Francis Peters has shared the creative process behind his latest artwork, which was inspired by a visit to the Valley of Fire. The location features distinct red stone formations and numerous petroglyphs created by the Ancestral Pueblo people.
While exploring a trail located between the red rocks, Peters encountered a specific handprint carved into a wall that dates back more than 4,000 years. He noted that the symbol served as evidence of past human presence, which prompted an immediate creative connection.
Peters explained that his objective was to create an image that told a deeper story rather than simply painting a direct copy of the historic site. To prepare for the piece, he spent time studying the native people and their environment.
During the physical creation of the painting, Peters chose to alter his standard process by sitting on the floor while working. He stated that this physical adjustment was intended to establish a grounded and reverent posture during the project.
The petroglyphs depicted within the final artwork are original creations rather than direct replicas of the ancient carvings. According to Peters, the symbols in the piece are designed to reflect his own contemporary story as a human being.
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