Swift Creek Mill Theatre Hosts Paul Penrod Memorial Art Show

The Featured Artist program of Swift Creek Mill Theatre is proud to present the artwork of Paul Penrod in an exhibition in the Historic Mill Room, along with the 2019-2020 logo artwork by Craig Martin. The show runs May 29 through July 14.

For this production, we celebrate the talent of teacher and artist Paul Penrod. A few years ago, Paul participated in our Featured Artist Program during Something's Afoot, but after a noble fight with cancer, he passed away in 2017. Now we are pleased to further the artistic legacy he created. Paul was, at heart, a storyteller, and most of his work is a narrative of connected episodes. He executed his detailed pieces using colored pencils, ink and washes. A teacher in Prince George County Public Schools, Paul had shown in numerous galleries, including being a featured artist at the Petersburg Area Art League (PAAL). All of his drawings tell a story from history, usually American, or "having some connection with the history of our nation," because his drawings combine his two passions of art and history. There were many influences on his art. Among them are Celtic designs, Medieval manuscripts, the American southwest, and Mexican mural painters. Paul Penrod had an academic background in studio art, printmaking, and art history. He stated that "it has been through the lens of art and history that I interpret the world." We know the world misses him... and he definitely left his mark on it.

As a bonus to this show, the original logo artwork for the Mill's 2019-2020 season by Craig Martin will be on display. These creative and colorful pieces take the viewer on a journey through the five stories that will grace the stage at Swift Creek Mill during the next Mainstage Season, each painting capturing a defining moment of its respective play.

There will be an opening reception for the art show May 29 at 7 PM open to Penrod's students, admirers, and anyone who would like to view the works. The art is available for viewing on Mainstage show dates, two hours prior to the performance and at intermission, during Sunday Brunch, and by appointment. Admission to the opening and art show is free.