The work of local artist Alyssa Penner appears in a new solo exhibition at the Tidemark Art Gallery throughout January and February.
Renowned across Canada and the U.S., Penner’s expressive and vibrant forest paintings depict the breathtaking local landscapes of Vancouver Island. Growing up on the Island provided her with an intimate connection to the raw beauty thriving beneath the expansive canopies of the Pacific Northwest’s colossal trees. Her adept brushwork skillfully captures the essence of light and movement, infusing her paintings with life, and freezing a moment in the embrace of nature.
Penner’s artistic journey began amidst the challenges of motherhood and pursuing an art education at North Island College in 2011. Balancing the demands of a small business and nurturing her artistic skills while being a stay-at-home mom presented its hurdles. However, Penner remained resolute, dedicating her early mornings and late evenings to learn and create, determined to evolve as an artist.
Today, Penner’s artistic career has blossomed through three solo exhibitions, garnering acclaim with artwork sold across Canada, the U.S., and internationally. Committed to her local community in Campbell River, Penner has generously contributed her time and art to various local businesses and volunteered extensively.
Her signature style, rooted in expressive landscape acrylics, has evolved over the years, showcasing her penchant for experimentation with new mediums and large-scale creations alongside her smaller works.
Penner’s latest exhibition, “Human Nature: An Exhibition Full of Life and Wonder,” delves into the profound connections between humanity and nature.
Reflecting on her artistic vision, Penner says, ”I could describe how I have always been driven to create and make a career out of my art, but that’s not what this show is about. It’s not about me, it’s about all of us and the unique connections we have to nature and the spaces surrounding us. I create art first and foremost for my own personal expression and needs. But also, by doing that I seem to express how we all see the world though an untainted, magical and childhood like view. To achieve this, I like to try and turn the landscape into a painting that represents how it makes me feel. I use colour to create both a joyful and calming presence. I play with movement, light and shadow. By working in this intuitive way, I create an experience that might spark a bit of wonder in your mind.”
Human Nature: An Exhibition Full of Life and Wonder will be on display in the Tidemark Art Gallery, January through February, 2024. The exhibit can be viewed Tuesday through Friday from 12-4 p.m.
Learn more about Penner and her work at her upcoming art reception at the Tidemark Theatre on Jan. 30 at 5 p.m. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.