Brenda Zappitell
Artist based in Encinitas, CA
ABOUT
Brenda Zappitell is contemporary abstract painter whose work is driven by an instinctive and spontaneous approach. When confronted with a blank canvas, she taps into her memories and intuitive impulses, yet stays firmly grounded in the present moment. Her process involves rapid brushstrokes and dynamic movements, allowing each gesture to shape the next. The layers she creates are filled with energy, evolving organically as she surrenders control to the paint. She works on a subconscious level, letting primal instincts guide her. Zappitell's approach is rooted in Abstract Expressionism, drawing inspiration from artists like Joan Mitchell and Willem De Kooning, who valued emotion and action over rigid ideas. Her mark-making, though seemingly serendipitous, is influenced by vivid visual impressions. She aims to create artwork that evokes a sense of expansion, as if her vision extends beyond the canvas into an entire universe. As she paints, her work takes on its own life, reflecting the inner landscapes of her mind. The glimpses she offers through her art invite viewers to connect with this energy, discovering their own interpretations within the rich layers of her paintings. Zappitell's work can be found in numerous collections worldwide. Originally from South Florida, Zappitell currently lives and works in Encinitas, CA.
ARTIST STATEMENT
The Ritual painting series is characterized by Zappitell’s distinctive gestural marks of looped forms in subdued palettes that have been integrated with mantra-like phrases repeatedly inscribed in diminutive text across the canvas. These statements, quietly repeated by the artist during the act of painting, serve a dual purpose as both a seal and a disclosure, intricately intertwining with the abstract forms to convey a precise intent and personal narrative. This deliberate fusion invites contemplation on the inherent potency of ritual embedded within the act of visual expression. Through this harmonious synthesis, the artist encourages viewers to consider the interplay of gesture, language, and personal introspection, creating a space where the impact of ritual is quietly and powerfully unveiled.
Website: https://www.zappitellstudio.com/
Instagram: @zappitell_studio