About the artist

Bio - Peter Dooley

Peter was born in 1958 and grew up in his family home, set in a large tranquil garden, a special place where butterflies, birds, bees, and children have co-existed right up to today.

A professional landscape photographer in South Africa, he specializes in black and white photography, taught by his father, an accomplished photographer.

Peter's mother, a Professor of Ikenobo, instilled in him a profound understanding of composition rooted in the philosophy of Ikenobo. This philosophy, emphasizing simplicity, elegance, and reverence for nature, profoundly influences Peter's work.

Their teachings inspired him to create elegant, immersive artworks that are harmonious and inspiring in their simplicity.

In 2002, Peter's digital image of a honey bee on an orange Japanese Cosmos flower graced the cover of a top South African magazine.

Despite early accolades for nature art photography, he later prioritized commercial work for financial reasons, though it never truly fed his soul.

Peter has now fully returned to his roots, focusing on nature in his photography and offering all works as Limited Edition fine art prints.

Peter was recently invited to join an international panel judging the prestigious 'Africa Photographic Awards' showcasing African photography.

What people say about Peter's artwork

"Peter Dooley is a contemporary master in black and white photography. His portfolio known as “Allure of Africa” is awe-inspiring and transcendent. His reverence for the beauty that exists in the natural world emanates from his images..

Peter’s art is visual poetry that elevates us to a peaceful realm. We bask in the glow of his myriad tones and degrees of luminosity that provide a treasure trove of harmonious modulations and contrasts. His images are meditative, bringing a healing modality to the viewer."

Renee Phillips, Director and Curator, Manhattan Arts International, New York, NY

" Peter Dooley's Mastery of Black and White Landscape Photography

In a world teeming with vibrant colours, Peter Dooley stands as a master of capturing the ethereal beauty of landscapes through the lens of black and white photography. With a keen eye for composition and a deep understanding of light and shadows, Peter transports viewers into a realm where monochrome becomes a gateway to a heightened sense of emotion and tranquillity.

Peter's photographs possess a remarkable ability to evoke a sense of timelessness, allowing viewers to see the natural world through a different lens. His choice to work exclusively in black and white strips away the distractions of colour, focusing attention solely on the raw elements of nature. Peter's artistry shines within this minimalist palette.

Composition plays a pivotal role in Peter's work. Each frame is meticulously crafted, showcasing a careful balance of elements and an impeccable sense of scale. From sweeping vistas to intimate details, Peter's photographs guide the viewer's gaze with precision. There is a harmonious interplay between light and dark, as shadows dance across the landscap.es, emphasizing the textures and contours of the natural world.

One striking aspect of Peter's black and white landscapes is his masterful control over tonal range. The grayscale spectrum he employs is rich and nuanced, revealing remarkable depth in every image. From the stark contrast of a rugged mountain peak against a brooding sky to the subtle gradations of mist cascading through magical African plains, Peter's photographs captivate the eye and invite contemplation.

Beyond technical prowess, Peter's photographs possess an undeniable emotional resonance. Each frame exudes a mood—a quiet stillness, a sense of awe, or a contemplative melancholy. It is through the absence of colour that he draws out the emotional essence of the landscapes, allowing viewers to connect on a deeper level. One cannot help but feel a sense of reverence for the majesty and grandeur of nature as portrayed through Peter's lens.

Peter Dooley's mastery of black and white landscape photography is an artistic feat that transcends the limitations of the medium. Through his meticulous composition, expert handling of tonal range, and profound emotional resonance, Peter transports viewers into a realm where nature's beauty is distilled into its purest form. With each photograph, he captures not only the visual splendour but also the intangible spirit that resides within the landscapes. Peter Dooley's black and white landscapes are a testament to the enduring power of monochrome photography and a testament to his exceptional talent as a photographer "

Tammy Marshall, Art of Print, South Africa

Artist Statement

I see my work as a tribute to the natural world, an examination of the conspicuous, the beautiful, and the imperfect.

My goal is to create unique art mainly featuring unusual and hard to reach places.

In the field, I seize the moment, using nature's light and shadows to uncover thoughts and spark curiosity in the world, bypassing the need for a perfect sky or sunset to capture and share what's before me, inspiring visual imagination.

Instead of cautiously navigating and pondering objects, I concentrate on their essence. This approach helps me deeply engage with nature. In photography, I consider how positioning can immerse viewers in the scene.

Through my art, I prompt viewers to reflect on their impact on environmental sustainability, emphasizing the interconnectedness of everyday actions and their consequences. I aim to depict values that align with urban life experiences.

I aim to challenge the fragmented mindset and culture of sustainability complacency by highlighting the disconnect between humanity and an idealized vision of pristine natural environments.

I use black and white to enhance timeless authenticity, emphasizing deep tones and specular highlights central to my work. Rich blacks capture the intense emotions that drew me to the space.

I respect my client's personal interpretation of the art on their walls, as it should ultimately tell their own story.

Peter Dooley

Peter Dooley

NATURE ADDICT, PASSIONATE PHOTOGRAPHER