Penny describes
her painting process...

“There is just something about painting on real wood that is different and more interesting for me than traditional paper or canvas. It’s as if the wood carries its own energy or story, with each crack, knot, or worm hole adding yet another dimension and even more interesting depth to the total piece. I like to believe that each old board holds its own indelible mark or imprint of its place and time in much the same way that a grand old tree reveals a bit of its history through the rings in its trunk.

When I begin each animal portrait, first I study as many reference photos as possible until the images somehow blend and overlap in my minds eye. ...Then I walk away for awhile. When I finally sit down to paint, I may refer to photos for body structure, but the individual faces and personalities just seem to emerge on their own. I never strive for exactness or correctness of detail. The beauty and mesmerizing power of animals in the wild can be breathtaking, but for me, what I always seem most drawn to, is that tiny, mysterious spark that illuminates the eyes and says... ‘I am one unique, individual spirit in this world and whether I’m 9 ft. tall in my own fur coat or no more than an inch high with a squeaky, little voice... I deserve to be here...and I will respect you, if you respect me.’