Peter McKinnon
The Artist
Peter McKinnon has been creating art for as long as he can remember, so it’s no surprise that he launched the Cedar Skye gallery to share his creative journey with the world. From his early days in Seattle, Peter’s passion for design has led him on an exciting career path. Starting out at two of the city’s top design firms, he quickly made his mark and eventually landed roles with the marketing giants at Microsoft and AT&T.
At Microsoft, Peter was a lead graphic designer and art director for product logos, print materials, publications, and even the packaging for the iconic Windows and Office software. But his talents didn’t stop there. After Microsoft, he brought his expertise to a start-up, helping them launch their brand by creating everything from marketing materials to their very first e-commerce website.
Today, Peter is a go-to design guru in the Seattle area, where he continues to work his magic by designing websites and consulting on various design projects for local businesses. His Cedar Skye gallery is a testament to his lifelong love for art, blending his early artistic roots with the cutting-edge design skills he’s honed over the years.
Profile
Peter McKinnon, a creative force hailing from the Seattle area, was born into a family deeply rooted in the Pacific Northwest. His father, an accomplished interior designer, and his mother, a locally known astrologist, both nurtured his early exposure to art and design. Initially drawn to the world of acting during his high school years, Peter’s artistic inclinations were redirected when his father recognized his talent and encouraged him to explore graphic design.
Peter honed his craft at the Art Institute of Seattle, where he developed a strong foundation in design principles and techniques. After graduation, he embarked on a professional journey that saw him contribute to some of the most prominent design firms in the region, including Ted Mader and Associates and Van Dyke Design. During his tenure at these firms, Peter’s work spanned a wide array of projects—from book covers and brochures to signs, logos, and annual reports for major corporations. Among his notable achievements, Peter was the creative mind behind the entire bus system map for Community Transit in Everett, Washington—a project that showcased his ability to blend functionality with visual appeal.
Despite his professional success, Peter’s passion for art has remained a constant thread throughout his life. Whether through watercolor paintings, intricate illustrations, or digital creations using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, he continues to explore and expand his artistic horizons. His work is a testament to his dedication to the craft, blending traditional techniques with modern technology to create visually stunning and impactful designs.