Sometimes an artist doesn’t choose art, but finds it as a result of life circumstances. It’s not an obvious gesture, to borrow the title of Lance Peacock’s exhibit of oil paintings at Art Access. At 39, he had a massive stroke, and the former businessman turned to painting, finding the medium inspired introspection. The Pleasant Grove resident notes, “The older we become, the opportunities are fewer, decisions are often made for us and adventures can become hazards. We look back on our lives and quite often live off of the memories we have made for ourselves.”

As opposed to traditional face portraits, these portraits tell their stories by focusing on the hands (a piece simply titled “George” is pictured), whether they’re playing guitar, huddling up in a coat against the cold, shaking a fist in defiance or outstretched through prison bars. Curiously, these works seem more intimate because of this focus, depicting activities the subjects are engaged in instead of the public gesture of a posed facial expression. What these hands find themselves occupied with is ultimately more revealing.

These rich character studies tell much about the artist, as well. Peacock says, “Even though I have been dealt cards that I didn’t want, I found that I could exchange a few of them and ask the dealer for more.” And this artistic hand gives itself away every time.

Lance Peacock: Obvious Gestures @ Art Access Gallery, 230 S. 500 West, No. 125, 801-328-0703, through Dec. 18, free. AccessArt.org