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By Sarah Ericson
Jim and Nathalie Peterson, curators of Mockingbird Gallery and Peterson Contemporary Art, have built two galleries with dedicated space for contemporary and nostalgic visual artists. Their galleries invite locals and tourists to explore art as a matter of self-expression. Exhibitions feature artists from near and far, and they offer opportunities for everyone to find connection to their community, the comforts of home, and the thrill of exploration. Explore the arts with us
“Bend was still a small town when we arrived, and we were pleasantly surprised to find an interest in sophisticated art in the place we chose to raise our family.”
–Jim Peterson, Mockingbird Gallery & Peterson Contemporary Art
Art as a personal expression & community connection
Art collectors flock to A-list gallery cities like Santa Fe, Carmel, New York City, and Los Angeles. These markets are globally renowned for pushing boundaries and representing top tier artists. Over the past 20 years, Bend has gradually earned a reputation as a fine art destination to the delight of both locals and visitors. This evolution has coincided with Bend’s population boom, and it has been ushered in by two of the West’s preeminent art stewards, Jim and Nathalie Peterson.
Jim & Nathalie’s Passion for Art
When the Petersons moved to Bend in 2007, they felt right at home in the growing community. They bought Mockingbird Gallery and immediately set a course for elevating its already stellar collection of fine art. “Bend was still a small town when we arrived, and we were pleasantly surprised to find an interest in sophisticated art in the place we chose to raise our family,” says Jim. He had already been in the art world for 20 years at that point, having previously worked at the prestigious May Gallery in Scottsdale, Arizona.
“We don’t want people to overthink the concept of art collecting. Artists create what they feel and people are attracted to art that evokes certain feelings. Choosing art for your home is a means of self-expression, and we love the opportunity to help people do that.”
–Jim Peterson, Mockingbird Gallery & Peterson Contemporary Art
With a seasoned background, the Petersons began to curate a collector-focused gallery where everyone–experienced art collectors and first-time buyers alike –would feel a sense of belonging. “We don’t want people to overthink the concept of art collecting. Artists create what they feel and people are attracted to art that evokes certain feelings. Choosing art for your home is a means of self-expression, and we love the opportunity to help people do that,” says Jim. Providing a diverse selection is an essential part of that mission, and the Petersons strive to keep an eclectic array of styles, media, and disciplines on display.
“People have always been impressed with the variety of art we put under one roof.”
–Jim Peterson, Mockingbird Gallery & Peterson Contemporary Art
Bend’s art scene through the years
The artistic community of Bend continued to embrace Mockingbird Gallery as the city experienced unprecedented growth. In places where tourism is part of the social fabric, catering to both residents and visitors is vital for economic survival. “People have always been impressed with the variety of art we put under one roof. Everyone can find something they feel a connection with,” says Jim. His collection includes visual artists from all over the country, and he says it’s a unique experience when tourists recognize artists from their home regions. “Recognizing an artist when you’re on vacation gives you a special feeling of connectedness. It makes people feel a kinship with Bend and it makes them feel proud of where they’re from,” he explains.
After nine years of operating Mockingbird Gallery and expanding the collection to meet evolving trends, the Petersons decided to open a second gallery location. Peterson Contemporary Art (PCA) was instantly a premier showcase for art with a modern aesthetic. “The population boom that was happening in Bend coincided with a shift in architectural styles. Luxury homes were being built in contemporary and modern styles. At Mockingbird, we offer a balance of current and contemporary art with a nod to what came before. Opening PCA gave us the opportunity to give our contemporary artists the dedicated spotlight they deserve,” says Jim. Having two separate galleries allowed the curation of distinct collections that complement each other and offer clients more choices. “Mockingbird is a comfortable and established space. PCA is edgy and attracts the designer market. Having two locations allows people to access both parts of themselves and find out where their tastes overlap,” he says. While the two galleries are housed independently, clients often spend equal time in both spaces while searching for pieces that fit perfectly in their collections.
Art as a Conduit for Community relationships
This, perhaps more than anywhere else, is where Jim and Nathalie truly excel. Their passion for art is undeniable, but their commitment to client satisfaction and artist representation is second to none. Clients in both of their galleries receive undivided attention and it doesn’t stop there. “I love to do in-home viewings for clients. Often, they’re completing a new build or moving into a totally blank canvas. Having options on-site helps them pinpoint the exact feeling they’re hoping to achieve. I love providing that service,” says Jim.
“The population boom that was happening in Bend coincided with a shift in architectural styles. Luxury homes were being built in contemporary and modern styles. At Mockingbird, we offer a balance of current and contemporary art with a nod to what came before. Opening PCA gave us the opportunity to give our contemporary artists the dedicated spotlight they deserve.”
–Jim Peterson, Mockingbird Gallery & Peterson Contemporary Art
Jim is equally committed to giving artists as much exposure as possible and matching their works with the perfect collector. “Artists put their trust in us and we take that seriously. Quality representation matters and that’s a culture that we’ve intentionally built our galleries around,” he adds.
The Petersons are also dedicated to supporting community events that bring artists and patrons together. Both galleries have been a mainstay in the Downtown Bend First Friday Art Walk events. “Whenever possible, our artists love to attend in-person. It completes the circle when we can bring the artists and the collectors together in a gallery that they both trust,” says Jim. The events are an important opportunity for people to share the experience of art together. Jim is enthusiastic about any chance to make art accessible to the community. “Friday Night events are the most public example of where strong local support and strong tourism come together. We are committed to being a part of immersive art experiences for the people of Bend,” he says.
With over three decades of art stewardship to look back on, it’s easy for the Petersons to feel nostalgic about their time in Bend. Nostalgia is an especially powerful emotion, one that their clients often seek when designing their home collections. The upcoming Rural Paths exhibition at Mockingbird Gallery will feature three Utah-based artists who specialize in evoking sentimentality. It seems fitting that Jim and Nathalie’s dedication to elevating the art scene in Bend will be mirrored back to them in this show. “Home is where we discover who we really are,” Jim shares. “And art will always be relevant no matter what Bend’s growth trajectory looks like. We are committed to being part of that future for the people of Bend.”
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