In the exhibit Not So Pleinly Pete: Works from the Studio of Peter Corbett, Island Mountain Arts is honoured to present a lesser-seen side of Peter Corbett’s artistic practice, which explores different mediums, close relations and politics, as curated by local artist and mentee of Peter, Amanda Preston. 

“Peter’s work is so much more than landscapes,” says Preston, who has lived in Wells for 10 years, “placing these works in a gallery setting honours one of my favourite Pete-isms ‘That art is meant to be seen on walls.’”  

The exhibition also aims to honour his legacy as a researcher and community builder.

“The work in this show is a very special insight into process;”  says IMA Artistic Director, Elyssia Sasaki, “How important experimentation, our vocations outside of artistic practice and other people are in shaping what ends up on a canvas or a stage. 

Peter is best known for his plein air oil landscapes of primarily Western Canada, so Preston says folks may be delighted by the departure from this form in this exhibition. 

“Folks can expect to see works exploring politics, works made with friends. There’s oil paintings, of course, but also intricate wire portraits, watercolours, and larger than life works on canvas.”

In early 2025, Peter noticed some vision and cognitive challenges that forced him to leave his studio in Wells and take up residence with his family in the Okanagan while undergoing medical assessment. The resulting scans revealed a brain tumour. In June, Peter underwent a craniotomy to remove what the surgeon could of the tumour, which proved to be quite extensive. Peter was diagnosed with glioblastoma - an aggressive and terminal form of cancer. The tumor grew so rapidly that by the time he had his post-surgical scan in August, the tumor had re-grown to a size even larger that it was before his surgery. The Doctors did not recommend a treatment plan. 

Peter Corbett passed away September 15 at the Penticton Hospice with his family and loved ones by his side. 

Before his passing, Peter gifted the St. George Studio to his sister Laura, and his art collection to his long-time friend, colleague, and partner Rhia. In partnership with Laura and Rhia, Amanda Preston and Jillian Merrick continue to operate his gallery online and in studio to help fulfil Peter’s wishes of putting art on walls. Two dates for Peter's public Celebrations of Life have been confirmed: Saturday, May 23 in the Naramata area and Saturday May 30 in Wells. More details will be coming soon and will also be posted to Peter's website once available.

We hope you will join us at the IMA Public Gallery from April 16th - May 16th (Closed Monday - Wednesday) to celebrate Peter’s work. IMA will host a free opening reception on April 16th at 6:00 PM. Refreshments will be served and all are welcome.

IMA acknowledges the support of the Province of British Columbia for keeping our gallery free to attend. 

IMA operates on the territory of the Lhtako Dene Nation, a traditional land-use area of the Dakelh and Secwépemc peoples, recognizing their historical and ongoing connection to the land.

Artist Bio

Peter Corbett is considered by many to have been one of western Canada’s leading plein air oil painters. Working from nature and the ever-changing light gives his work a loose spontaneous quality. His work has been shown extensively in both public and commercial galleries. He has been the recipient of numerous awards and grants and has been a mentor and teacher in various capacities.