One of Canada’s top equestrian artists lives in Alberta but she is originally from Manitoba.

Kim Penner was raised in Morden, and she developed a genuine interest and appreciation for horses at an early age. Having owned horses since the age of 10, Kim has steadily developed a close connection with the subjects she adores so much and with whom she spends so much of her time. Through the encouragement and support of her parents, Kim entered her renderings into local fairs and art festivals.

She would later go on to graduate from the University of Manitoba with degrees in both Fine Arts and Education in 1992.

Since Wednesday of this week, Penner has set up at a booth at the 2023 World Clydesdale Show at the Keystone Centre in Brandon. “I brought quite a few original paintings and limited-edition canvas prints. I’ve recently got into metal art prints and many other smaller items that companies license, and I can sell like calendars and products like that,” she explains.

Whether her subjects are wild or domestic, Kim focuses on correct anatomy as well as the natural beauty of her subjects. Not only does she pay attention to detail, she also strives to portray the nature and spirit of the horses that she paints. Her love for nature is evident in the landscapes that she incorporates into her compositions.

“I’m happy to be back in Brandon because it’s nice to meet people and give them a chance to see the work in person. People also like to meet the artist, and this is an important part of doing business.”

Kim Penner says it can be a challenge with several commissions on the go and keeping up with painting to have new pieces at shows.

“You never know what's coming because you get a few phone calls and then you’re busy for the next few months. I have to balance my work because I have quite a few companies who license my work for products and they always like to see new pieces,” she says.

The World Clydesdale Show ends Sunday, July 23rd and Penner’s next shows will include Alberta, and a Spruce Meadows event in September, as well as the Canadian Rodeo Finals this November in Red Deer.