top of page

Making the most of a winter break.❄️

Making the most of a winter break.❄️

Spread a little cheer to brighten someone’s day!🎄Only at East Sacramento’s @archivalgallery thru Xmas Eve.

Spread a little cheer to brighten someone’s day!🎄Only at East Sacramento’s @archivalgallery thru Xmas Eve.

Feeling really grateful today. Local art coverage in Sacramento can be limited, so being featured a few times this year—and now on a front cover—means a lot.

I’m thankful that my ceramic work is finding its way to people. Every piece has a story, and I’m excited to keep sharing the journey as I follow my own creative path.
Thanks to @landparklocal_magazine and @shielaarringtonphotography !

Feeling really grateful today. Local art coverage in Sacramento can be limited, so being featured a few times this year—and now on a front cover—means a lot.

I’m thankful that my ceramic work is finding its way to people. Every piece has a story, and I’m excited to keep sharing the journey as I follow my own creative path.
Thanks to @landparklocal_magazine and @shielaarringtonphotography !

Inspiration from 34k feet! #airplaneview

Inspiration from 34k feet! #airplaneview

The group show at @archivalgallery (up til December 20) is full of giftworthy small work by local artists! The last batch of my uplifting Soul Care pieces are only available there! Stop by 3223 Folsom Blvd in East Sacramento.

The group show at @archivalgallery (up til December 20) is full of giftworthy small work by local artists! The last batch of my uplifting Soul Care pieces are only available there! Stop by 3223 Folsom Blvd in East Sacramento.

Nighttime view really shows the relief detail on one of my dome pieces!

Nighttime view really shows the relief detail on one of my dome pieces!

Tonight’s the night!

My “Aftermath” piece, born from the wild start to 2025, speaks to the devastation (of wildfires in Southern California) and turmoil (caused by the new administration in Washington DC) including layoffs that targeted public servants and military veterans, attacks on immigrants, people of color, LGBTQ, and trans communities, and the deep divisions across America. All these things left deep scars, like lava flowing from a volcano. The randomly embedded shards represent the rubble, like pieces of old plates or memories that survived a terrible fire. “Aftermath” is like a signpost, hoping to guide us to a brighter future where we value the strength of a diverse community again. This piece is up for bid tonight!

It’ll be an unforgettable evening featuring live and silent auctions, delicious catered bites, craft beverages, a live DJ, and great company.

Come out, support Sacramento artists, and maybe take home a new favorite piece! 💛
@vergeart | vergecontemporary.org

Tonight’s the night!

My “Aftermath” piece, born from the wild start to 2025, speaks to the devastation (of wildfires in Southern California) and turmoil (caused by the new administration in Washington DC) including layoffs that targeted public servants and military veterans, attacks on immigrants, people of color, LGBTQ, and trans communities, and the deep divisions across America. All these things left deep scars, like lava flowing from a volcano. The randomly embedded shards represent the rubble, like pieces of old plates or memories that survived a terrible fire. “Aftermath” is like a signpost, hoping to guide us to a brighter future where we value the strength of a diverse community again. This piece is up for bid tonight!

It’ll be an unforgettable evening featuring live and silent auctions, delicious catered bites, craft beverages, a live DJ, and great company.

Come out, support Sacramento artists, and maybe take home a new favorite piece! 💛
@vergeart | vergecontemporary.org

Tiki totem soaking up the days last autumn sun.

Tiki totem soaking up the days last autumn sun.

Thanks to the bidders on “Sloughhouse” during Sunday’s KVIE Art Auction! We hit bell-ringer status to help reach the fundraising goal AND someone has a new piece of art !🙏🏻

Thanks to the bidders on “Sloughhouse” during Sunday’s KVIE Art Auction! We hit bell-ringer status to help reach the fundraising goal AND someone has a new piece of art !🙏🏻

I remember the day in 1979 (?) when UPS dropped a big parcel on my family’s doorstep. Back then, any delivery was big news, but unpacking our spiffy new KVIE/PBS directors’ chairs (sunshine yellow with tubular chrome frames, BTW) made the Peterson’s official supporters of Public Television.

Cut to the present day when that support is more important than ever. In light of the recent funding cuts, I’m thrilled the art piece I’ve contributed to this year’s KVIE Art Auction will add to the fundraising totals before heading to a new forever home!

My wall art, “Sloughhouse,” depicts an aerial view of a route many Sacramento locals pass through on the way to the produce stand, Rancho Murieta, or the wineries around Plymouth. It will be auctioned on Sunday, October 5th, between 6:30 and 7:00 p.m.

All proceeds will support the inspiring programs and essential services you value at KVIE, our local PBS station!

See “Sloughhouse” (item 44F) in person at KVIE through October 1st.

I remember the day in 1979 (?) when UPS dropped a big parcel on my family’s doorstep. Back then, any delivery was big news, but unpacking our spiffy new KVIE/PBS directors’ chairs (sunshine yellow with tubular chrome frames, BTW) made the Peterson’s official supporters of Public Television.

Cut to the present day when that support is more important than ever. In light of the recent funding cuts, I’m thrilled the art piece I’ve contributed to this year’s KVIE Art Auction will add to the fundraising totals before heading to a new forever home!

My wall art, “Sloughhouse,” depicts an aerial view of a route many Sacramento locals pass through on the way to the produce stand, Rancho Murieta, or the wineries around Plymouth. It will be auctioned on Sunday, October 5th, between 6:30 and 7:00 p.m.

All proceeds will support the inspiring programs and essential services you value at KVIE, our local PBS station!

See “Sloughhouse” (item 44F) in person at KVIE through October 1st.

For my Soul Care pieces, I used uplifting statements to help people get through a stressful day, like Michelle Obama’s “we go high” or the affirming “Be you. Be proud.” What is your mantra to help get through challenging times? Do you have something that would make it easier to face a cruel world if you saw it, said it, or heard it before you went out the door? I’d love to hear what makes you happy and what makes you feel empowered and valued. Please leave your comment below!
#HopeThroughArt #DiversityMatters #SoulCare #VergeArt #SacOpenStudios
#artistsofsacramento #resist

For my Soul Care pieces, I used uplifting statements to help people get through a stressful day, like Michelle Obama’s “we go high” or the affirming “Be you. Be proud.” What is your mantra to help get through challenging times? Do you have something that would make it easier to face a cruel world if you saw it, said it, or heard it before you went out the door? I’d love to hear what makes you happy and what makes you feel empowered and valued. Please leave your comment below!
#HopeThroughArt #DiversityMatters #SoulCare #VergeArt #SacOpenStudios
#artistsofsacramento #resist

Thrilled by the reaction to the Soul Care pieces! Thanks @time4erica !

Thrilled by the reaction to the Soul Care pieces! Thanks @time4erica !

Thrilled by the reaction to the Soul Care pieces! Thanks @mickiwg !

Thrilled by the reaction to the Soul Care pieces! Thanks @mickiwg !

#sacopenstudios has been so much fun! This is the last day and we’re here til 5!
@clayartstudio814 @dogfoodbuffet @vergeart

#sacopenstudios has been so much fun! This is the last day and we’re here til 5!
@clayartstudio814 @dogfoodbuffet @vergeart

It’s #sacopenstudios and we can’t wait to see ya!
#vergeart #sacopenstudios2025 #ceramicart

It’s #sacopenstudios and we can’t wait to see ya!
#vergeart #sacopenstudios2025 #ceramicart

Looking forward to a weekend of good vibes! Stop in @clayartstudio814 814 Alhambra Blvd, Sacramento, CA #sacopenstudios #vergeart #sacopenstudio2025

Looking forward to a weekend of good vibes! Stop in @clayartstudio814 814 Alhambra Blvd, Sacramento, CA #sacopenstudios #vergeart #sacopenstudio2025

I wish it were as simple as applying sunscreen to shield our hearts and self-worth from a toxic culture. However, starting the day with a dose of positivity while heading out the door is the next best thing! Stock up on these Soul Care pieces this weekend at Sac Open Studios.
Every Soul Care sale during Sac Open Studios contributes $5 to the @saclgbtcenter
#HopeThroughArt #DiversityMatters #SoulCare #VergeArt #SacOpenStudios
#artistsofsacramento #resist #sacopenstudios2025

I wish it were as simple as applying sunscreen to shield our hearts and self-worth from a toxic culture. However, starting the day with a dose of positivity while heading out the door is the next best thing! Stock up on these Soul Care pieces this weekend at Sac Open Studios.
Every Soul Care sale during Sac Open Studios contributes $5 to the @saclgbtcenter
#HopeThroughArt #DiversityMatters #SoulCare #VergeArt #SacOpenStudios
#artistsofsacramento #resist #sacopenstudios2025

Our diversity is our strength. Even though these times feel uncertain and challenging, I hold onto hope that future generations will learn from this turmoil to build a kinder, more inclusive world.

Until then, I hope my “Soul Care” creations serve as a source of comfort, strength, and a beautiful reminder of your authentic self. You are seen. You are valued. You are enough.

See the collection in person @ClayArtStudio814 from 10-5p during #Sacopenstudios2025 weekend two (Sept 20-21)!
#HopeThroughArt #DiversityMatters #SoulCare #VergeArt #SacOpenStudios #ArtistsofSacramento

Our diversity is our strength. Even though these times feel uncertain and challenging, I hold onto hope that future generations will learn from this turmoil to build a kinder, more inclusive world.

Until then, I hope my “Soul Care” creations serve as a source of comfort, strength, and a beautiful reminder of your authentic self. You are seen. You are valued. You are enough.

See the collection in person @ClayArtStudio814 from 10-5p during #Sacopenstudios2025 weekend two (Sept 20-21)!
#HopeThroughArt #DiversityMatters #SoulCare #VergeArt #SacOpenStudios #ArtistsofSacramento

With “Soul Care,” I dove into new techniques—mold making, porcelain slip casting, and screen printing on clay. It was a journey filled with trial and error, but each piece became a reflection of resilience and growth.

Stepping out of my creative comfort zone wasn’t easy, but I realized that true courage comes from being authentic, especially when the world tries to mold us into outdated norms. This art is for anyone who’s ever felt unseen, undervalued, or judged.

#CreativeCourage #Authenticity #ArtForTheSoul #sacopenstudios2025 #vergeart #artistsofsacramento #clayart #transrightsarehumanrights🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈

With “Soul Care,” I dove into new techniques—mold making, porcelain slip casting, and screen printing on clay. It was a journey filled with trial and error, but each piece became a reflection of resilience and growth.

Stepping out of my creative comfort zone wasn’t easy, but I realized that true courage comes from being authentic, especially when the world tries to mold us into outdated norms. This art is for anyone who’s ever felt unseen, undervalued, or judged.

#CreativeCourage #Authenticity #ArtForTheSoul #sacopenstudios2025 #vergeart #artistsofsacramento #clayart #transrightsarehumanrights🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈

Over the summer, my clay work took a different turn. Instead of my usual abstract and aerial pieces, I focused on processing the overwhelming headlines that weighed heavily on my heart. Amidst all the negativity, many people—immigrants, women, people of color, the LGBTQ+, government workers, and even military veterans—were treated unjustly or told they didn’t belong.

One morning, I had a thought: What if we could protect our hearts as easily as we apply lotion to our skin? That’s when "Soul Care" was born, transforming both my art and my purpose.

#SoulCare #ArtWithPurpose #ClayJourney #artistsofsacramento #sacopenstudios2025

Over the summer, my clay work took a different turn. Instead of my usual abstract and aerial pieces, I focused on processing the overwhelming headlines that weighed heavily on my heart. Amidst all the negativity, many people—immigrants, women, people of color, the LGBTQ+, government workers, and even military veterans—were treated unjustly or told they didn’t belong.

One morning, I had a thought: What if we could protect our hearts as easily as we apply lotion to our skin? That’s when "Soul Care" was born, transforming both my art and my purpose.

#SoulCare #ArtWithPurpose #ClayJourney #artistsofsacramento #sacopenstudios2025

Just a few days left to see the Mid-Century Mayhem group show at @archivalgallery. #ceramicart #artistsofsacramento #eastsac

Just a few days left to see the Mid-Century Mayhem group show at @archivalgallery. #ceramicart #artistsofsacramento #eastsac

Flash sale on Amaco glaze AND the Rooted show at @alphafiredarts… that’s worth a trip out!

Flash sale on Amaco glaze AND the Rooted show at @alphafiredarts… that’s worth a trip out!

* that may be a slight exaggeration, but I think you’ll like it. I’ve been working on something new for #sacopenstudios! I’ll be hanging with my @clayartstudio814 peeps the 2nd weekend (9/20-21). See you then! #ceramicartist

* that may be a slight exaggeration, but I think you’ll like it. I’ve been working on something new for #sacopenstudios! I’ll be hanging with my @clayartstudio814 peeps the 2nd weekend (9/20-21). See you then! #ceramicartist

Great turnout tonight! Kudos to D. for curating the varied styles of so many artists for “Mid-century Mayhem”.🙌

Great turnout tonight! Kudos to D. for curating the varied styles of so many artists for “Mid-century Mayhem”.🙌

“American Dream” will make its debut as part of the Mid-Century Mayhem group show at @archivalgallery! See it in person at this Saturday’s reception from 5-8pm #supportlocalartists #ceramicart #artistsofsacramento

“American Dream” will make its debut as part of the Mid-Century Mayhem group show at @archivalgallery! See it in person at this Saturday’s reception from 5-8pm #supportlocalartists #ceramicart #artistsofsacramento

“Aftermath” is included in the @bluelinearts membership medley collection on display through Aug 9th!
#ceramicart #artistsofsacramento

“Aftermath” is included in the @bluelinearts membership medley collection on display through Aug 9th!
#ceramicart #artistsofsacramento

I’m honored to have some of my aerial works included with those of @watercolor_waltz , @lindasfitzgibbon and Jim Tracy at @alphafiredarts next show, Rooted.
This is one of my first Sacramento aerials, and I’m finally ready to let it find a forever home!
See you at the reception, August 2nd!
#ceramicart #artistsofsacramento

I’m honored to have some of my aerial works included with those of @watercolor_waltz , @lindasfitzgibbon and Jim Tracy at @alphafiredarts next show, Rooted.
This is one of my first Sacramento aerials, and I’m finally ready to let it find a forever home!
See you at the reception, August 2nd!
#ceramicart #artistsofsacramento

I’m proud to support our local PBS station! My piece “Sloughhouse” will be up for auction at this year’s #pbskvieartauction @kviepbsarts

I’m proud to support our local PBS station! My piece “Sloughhouse” will be up for auction at this year’s #pbskvieartauction @kviepbsarts

Thanks to @eastsaclocal_magazine for featuring my work in the June ‘25 issue!

Thanks to @eastsaclocal_magazine for featuring my work in the June ‘25 issue!

A long weekend gives me a chance to go down a few rabbit holes…

A long weekend gives me a chance to go down a few rabbit holes…

“Aftermath” is my latest sculpture in reaction to the destructive politics ( and natural wildfires) we’ve witnessed in 2025. #artistsofinstagram #ceramicarts #artistsofsacramento

“Aftermath” is my latest sculpture in reaction to the destructive politics ( and natural wildfires) we’ve witnessed in 2025. #artistsofinstagram #ceramicarts #artistsofsacramento

I’m honored to have a piece in this year’s silent auction! #2025crockerartauction #crockerartmuseum #artistsofsacramento

I’m honored to have a piece in this year’s silent auction! #2025crockerartauction #crockerartmuseum #artistsofsacramento

I’m honored to have a piece included in this year’s Crocker Art Auction!
“1961: Time Capsule” distills a key year in Sacramento’s history through parcel maps, Sacramento Bee headlines, real estate listings, and advertisements, while shining a light on racial and gender inequities of the time.

I encourage you to support our venerable Crocker Art Museum; visit crockerart.org/artauction for details. Bidding is LIVE now for this and many other works. (Link in bio⬆️) #2025CrockerArtAuction #CrockerArt

I’m honored to have a piece included in this year’s Crocker Art Auction!
“1961: Time Capsule” distills a key year in Sacramento’s history through parcel maps, Sacramento Bee headlines, real estate listings, and advertisements, while shining a light on racial and gender inequities of the time.

I encourage you to support our venerable Crocker Art Museum; visit crockerart.org/artauction for details. Bidding is LIVE now for this and many other works. (Link in bio⬆️) #2025CrockerArtAuction #CrockerArt

Took one of the kids for an adventure today…
Visit her at the Pence Gallery “Assorted Flavors” exhibit May 1 through June 6!

Took one of the kids for an adventure today…
Visit her at the Pence Gallery “Assorted Flavors” exhibit May 1 through June 6!

Just a few days left to get up close with the new work. @archivalgallery is open Wednesday-Saturday from 11-4! #artistsofsacramento #ceramicart #saclocal #eastsacramento

Just a few days left to get up close with the new work. @archivalgallery is open Wednesday-Saturday from 11-4! #artistsofsacramento #ceramicart #saclocal #eastsacramento

Fun fact: The first piece of local art I ever bought (back in the late ‘80s) was by Corey Okada.

Guess what? I’m thrilled to share gallery space with him for this month’s show! (Not to mention Debra Kreck-Harnish and her Spice Girls assemblage!)

The opening is this Saturday, and Cactus Pete will be there, spinning some classic tunes from his collection of 78s… if you’re out and about, come by and check it out!

Fun fact: The first piece of local art I ever bought (back in the late ‘80s) was by Corey Okada.

Guess what? I’m thrilled to share gallery space with him for this month’s show! (Not to mention Debra Kreck-Harnish and her Spice Girls assemblage!)

The opening is this Saturday, and Cactus Pete will be there, spinning some classic tunes from his collection of 78s… if you’re out and about, come by and check it out!

A peek at one of the new works in process—- and the finished piece.
Exhibiting now at @archivalgallery

A peek at one of the new works in process—- and the finished piece.
Exhibiting now at @archivalgallery

Opens @archivalgallery Wednesday

Opens @archivalgallery Wednesday

Sometimes things happen gradually, and other times a sudden realization hits you like a ton of bricks (in a good way!). That’s what happened to me in February. I was inspired by the work of Sacramento ceramicist Kris Marubayashi, especially her “Caldera” forms. It was like a lightbulb went off in my head!

You see, my landscape pieces have always been pretty flat. But Kris’s gently domed pieces inspired me to try something new. Not only does this breathe fresh life into my aerial views, but it also showcases one of my favorite things about ceramics: how light and shadow play with the clay.

I’m always learning and growing as an artist, and I’m excited to share my new work with you. My new exhibition at Archival Gallery features three new pastoral aerials.

The show runs from April 3rd to 26th, and the opening reception is on April 12th from 5 to 8 pm. I hope to see you there!

Sometimes things happen gradually, and other times a sudden realization hits you like a ton of bricks (in a good way!). That’s what happened to me in February. I was inspired by the work of Sacramento ceramicist Kris Marubayashi, especially her “Caldera” forms. It was like a lightbulb went off in my head!

You see, my landscape pieces have always been pretty flat. But Kris’s gently domed pieces inspired me to try something new. Not only does this breathe fresh life into my aerial views, but it also showcases one of my favorite things about ceramics: how light and shadow play with the clay.

I’m always learning and growing as an artist, and I’m excited to share my new work with you. My new exhibition at Archival Gallery features three new pastoral aerials.

The show runs from April 3rd to 26th, and the opening reception is on April 12th from 5 to 8 pm. I hope to see you there!

New work is headed to @archivalgallery for the April (3-26th) exhibition! #ceramicart #artistsofinstagram #artistsofsacramento #resist #altadenafire

New work is headed to @archivalgallery for the April (3-26th) exhibition! #ceramicart #artistsofinstagram #artistsofsacramento #resist #altadenafire

New works on the way! See the finished pieces in April @archivalgallery

New works on the way! See the finished pieces in April @archivalgallery

Attending this Saturday’s Lottery for the Arts @bluelinearts ? Check out #91- How the Light Gets In is a testament to optimism in the face of a fractured world!🌎 ❤️ (and it looks like I was trying to scare off a bear in #2!🐻😱)

Attending this Saturday’s Lottery for the Arts @bluelinearts ? Check out #91- How the Light Gets In is a testament to optimism in the face of a fractured world!🌎 ❤️ (and it looks like I was trying to scare off a bear in #2!🐻😱)

New work is shaping up nicely!

New work is shaping up nicely!

Memo to kiln: let’s do this! #ceramicart #artistsofsacramento

Memo to kiln: let’s do this! #ceramicart #artistsofsacramento

A rainy day schedule gives me some quality time in the lab!😉

A rainy day schedule gives me some quality time in the lab!😉

Coming in for a landing!
#ceramicart #artistsofsacramento

Coming in for a landing!
#ceramicart #artistsofsacramento

Getting up close with some new work!#ceramicart #artistsofinstagram #sacramentomakers

Getting up close with some new work!#ceramicart #artistsofinstagram #sacramentomakers

An inspiring exhibition @crockerart focused on Northern California ceramic artist, Mary Tuthill Lindheim is definitely worth seeing! It’s up through Feb 16.

My question… if you have seen it, do you know if the carnelians inset on the last pic would’ve/could’ve been through the kiln?

An inspiring exhibition @crockerart focused on Northern California ceramic artist, Mary Tuthill Lindheim is definitely worth seeing! It’s up through Feb 16.

My question… if you have seen it, do you know if the carnelians inset on the last pic would’ve/could’ve been through the kiln?

.pro-gallery-wix-wrapper {display: block !important;} .pro-gallery-wix-wrapper .gallery-item-container {opacity: 1 !important; display: block !important;}

Follow me on Instagram

Blog entries

Understanding A World of Hurt: Healing and Hope in Tough Times

Understanding A World of Hurt: Healing and Hope in Tough Times

Understanding A World of Hurt: Healing and Hope in Tough Times

Over the summer, my clay work took a different turn. Instead of my usual abstract and aerial pieces, I decided to focus on the headlines...

William Peterson

Sep 18, 20252 min read

"Solving Sacramento" profile

Recently, I chatted with Seth Sandronsky about my art and the underlying themes that run through it. https://solvingsacramento.org/artis...

William Peterson

May 22, 20251 min read

The Story Behind 'After the Fire'

The Story Behind 'After the Fire'

The Story Behind 'After the Fire'

Amidst all this destruction, I was inspired by a ceramic piece by Anthony Maki Gill , which had always intrigued me. His ability to embed...

William Peterson

Apr 7, 20252 min read

bottom of page