Peter Hagerty is a Chicago-born artist and citizen of Ireland through ancestry. He has lived in this area his entire life.

As a self taught artist, Hagerty turned to portraiture as a way to build his skill level. Completing portraits of both celebrities and common folk alike – especially Chicagoans – has become his passion for the past 30 years.

He began his artistic endeavors using oil sticks and colored pencils on paper; eventually moving to his current medium of oil paint on board or plywood. His advice to other artists: When a piece does not turn out well, do not frivolously throw it away. An art work is a reflection of a certain period in your life,  and it takes on a larger meaning - becoming a memento you will want to keep!

You will love these less then perfect works, regardless of the quality, the way you love old family photos – Keep working, stay dedicated, don't give up and don't compare yourself to other's.

Thank You