Gilles Peltier is a self-taught sculptor known for his painted relief carvings of birds rendered in acrylic slabs. Born in Quebec in 1946, Peltier worked as a goldsmith for many years before accidentally discovering his artistic process when he one day dropped an electric drill on a Plexiglass display. Realizing that he could carve shallow images into the material, he perfected his craft over the next decade before revealing his work to the public, when it was met with enthusiasm by bird lovers and art lovers. He was able to make a career out of his art with the help of his wife, Huguette Peltier, who manages the commercial side of the business. Previously split between Canada and the United States, Peltier received a permanent visa as an “Alien of Extraordinary Talent” in 2010, allowing him to pursue his craft in the States.

Peltier was a nature enthusiast and amateur hunter who was always inspired by the variety of birds he encountered. Peltier was a member of many nature conservation groups including the Audobon Society and National Wildlife Federation. He has received awards from many wildlife and waterfowl arts festivals throughout North America and his work is featured in the Roger Williams Park Zoo Education Center.