Artist Statement: Penny Apple

As an artist, my passion lies in capturing the expressive beauty of the world through bold, loose brushstrokes and a distinctive acrylic painting style I call expressive realism. My work blends controlled techniques with an intentional freedom that breathes life and emotion into every subject. Whether I’m painting the soulful gaze of a beloved pet, the subtle interplay of light and shadow in a landscape, or the vibrant energy of colour and texture, my mission is to evoke connection, curiosity, and joy.

My art is deeply rooted in the philosophy that value—the lightness or darkness of a subject—is more critical than colour in creating impactful compositions. I often say, “Value does all the work, but colour gets all the credit.” With this approach, I focus on capturing the essence of a subject, working in layers to achieve depth, movement, and energy. My process begins with a coloured ground, never a blank canvas, as I believe in building a painting’s story from the ground up.

I avoid black in my colour mixing, favouring subdued tones created by desaturating brighter hues to maintain vibrancy and harmony. My practice includes techniques like optical blending, where layers of paint interact to create subtle transitions and dynamic energy. This method mirrors life itself—filled with complexities and nuances that reveal themselves with closer observation.

My art celebrates the imperfect, the emotional, and the deeply personal. I often paint pets and animals, finding their unique personalities and expressions endlessly inspiring. Each painting becomes a tribute, not just to the subject, but to the relationships and memories they represent. I also find inspiration in the landscapes of my home in Deniliquin, NSW, and the everyday beauty of the world around me.

Beyond my own practice, I am dedicated to empowering others to express themselves through art. Through Penny Apple Studio, I create accessible, inspiring tutorials that demystify the process of acrylic painting. My teaching focuses on helping students embrace imperfection, find their unique voice, and enjoy the freedom that comes with expressive, confident brushwork.

For me, art is not about perfection but about connection—whether to a subject, a moment, or the artist within ourselves. Each stroke is an invitation to wander, wonder, and dream. I hope my work encourages others to see the world with fresh eyes and to pick up their brushes with courage and joy.

Keep splashing colours!
Penny 🎨✨