A combination of a passion for painting and a love of Pinto horses inspired the double entendre for the Running Paints exhibition at the Armstrong and Spallumcheen Museum and Art Gallery.
For the first time, Vernon artist Wendy Hart Penner will have her art displayed in a gallery.
“Last November I was approached by the Armstrong Spallumcheen Museum and Art Gallery and asked to have a solo exhibition this summer,” said Penner.
“I will have 17 paintings on display in this exhibition, 15 of which have never been shown as this will be my first time in an art gallery.”
Penner has had a long career in the arts community, first as a graphic designer in Vancouver working at The Province and The Vancouver Sun.
Then, after relocating to the Interior, she opened her own commercial art business, designing for local businesses such as Tolko, where she designed the tile mural in the foyer of their new building in downtown Vernon.
Her other clients include Silver Star Adventure Tours, the Bean Scene Coffee House, and many more.
In fact, her work can be seen all over town in countless different businesses.
“I am a commercial illustrator turned painter,” said Penner, who has a degree in illustration from the Sheridan College of Applied Arts and Technology.
“My work can be found in collections across Canada, US and Europe. I draw inspiration from everyday life and depict it in an impressionistic way.”
Although she was very successful in the graphic design field, Penner decided to make a change.
“After 30 years in the commercial art business, it was time for me to focus on my life-long desire to paint.”
Penner likes to focus on oil paintings, which she does “alla prima,” or all in one session without letting the paint dry, and charcoal when life drawing. She honed her skills while painting for her blog.
“I found the practice of painting daily excellent for painting skills and yet not overwhelming in terms of time and commitment as each piece could be completed in one to three hours.
“I continue to post my work on a regular but not daily basis,” said Penner.
“I am also very pleased to announce that I will be joined in the gallery’s Freeze Room by the talented artist/blacksmith Doug Alcock and his exquisite sculptures.”
In the main gallery will be works by artists Sondra Haglund and Amy Jo Salter.
Penner’s collection will be on display at the Armstrong and Spallumcheen Art Gallery on Pleasant Valley Road from Thursday to Aug. 27. The opening reception is on Friday from 7 to 9 p.m.
