As a part of the arts desk’s ongoing series, “In the Studio,” senior Peter Pendergrass spoke with staff writer Abby Gerdes about what drives his art — from childhood into the future.
Pendergrass is a double major in performance studies and studio art, working on multiple theses at UNC.
Daily Tar Heel: When did you first realize you were an artist?
Peter Pendergrass: When I was four, I painted a really great picture of my cat, Peaches. It’s still framed and hanging in my parents’ house. That’s my first memory of feeling intense gratification from making art.
DTH: What artists have influenced you and how?
PP: I’d probably say that I’ve been influenced by a lot of musicians. I love ’90s dance. Grouper has been a huge influence in my music and other art. …. I like the idea of simplicity — just objects in space. Art professors always want an intentional meaning, but sometimes meaning just happens.
DTH: How do you stay motivated when the going gets tough?
PP: Whenever I want something a lot, a lot, I wish for it on every 11:11. When I wish for something every 11:11 I know I really want it, and that helps to keep me motivated. Recently I’ve been wishing — I hope telling you won’t make this not come true — to graduate with honors and with sanity. I also let myself take breaks. Sometimes you have to pull all-nighters to get something done, but it’s also important just to know when to stop.
DTH: Do you have favorite movies? Favorite books?
