Vanessa Penman is a South African born artist who is inspired by indigenous people across the globe, animals and untouched natural places. Vanessa firmly believes that the traditional peoples of our heritage had a wisdom and knowledge of the world and an understanding of the interconnectedness of all things.

 At this time when global focus is on the Environment, western culture has much to glean from their stories, lifestyles and belief systems. Many of their ways were entrenched in respect for all sentient beings and the recognition that all forms of life are intertwined, and when treated as such, sustain and nourish all things.

Her Earliest memories of drawing are of a lion pencil sketch that was sold to a family friend at age 12. Vanessa was always creating beadwork, decoupage and tapestry as a young child. Fine art is something that has always come naturally, often keeping a pencil or paintbrush in her hair!

Technical inspiration comes from Impressionist Masters such as Van Gogh and Monet. Loving the painterly manner in which they place colors and brush strokes so spontaneously and yet with deep contemplation and emotion. Contemporaries who capture her attention being Howard Behrens, Pino Daeni and Alex Perez. As a self-taught artist, she is discovering a style that is unique - full of color and texture, reminiscent of the wild places remaining in our World. 

She is at home in peaceful surroundings, free to create, focus and portray issues that touch her soul. Ethnic people, tribes and Nations have imprinted this world in history, such as the Native American Indians of America, Waitaha of New Zealand and San Bushmen of Southern Africa. These peoples and wild animals are the predominant genre in her works because their deep spiritual connection to all life inspires her. 

Art, classical guitar and gardening are considered active meditations. Images and thoughts that translate into artworks at times occur in dreams or while running, swimming or practicing yoga.


"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail"

Ralph Waldo Emerson 
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