Allen Penniman

Allen Penniman (b. 1995, Hartford, Connecticut) is a Miami-based artist and resident at El Fresco Project Space. In parallel with his studio practice, he works in the maritime field as a captain, mate, and engineer on private vessels—an experience that informs both the rhythm and sensibility of his work.

Penniman’s practice is rooted in narrative painting, producing mid- to large-scale works that merge figuration with subtle surrealism. His compositions draw from transient moments, social observation, and lived experience, unfolding with a cinematic sensibility. Through layered imagery and atmosphere, his work seeks to distill a raw, unvarnished truth of contemporary life.

A self-taught artist, Penniman has been working professionally for the past three years. Raised in Maine, he spent his early years drawing before stepping away to pursue a transient and experiential lifestyle. His varied background—including commercial fishing, sailing, carpentry, and skydiving—continues to shape the psychological and visual language of his paintings.

Penniman has presented work in solo and group exhibitions throughout South Florida, with additional exhibitions in Barcelona, Spain.

Heat Lightning

Oil on Canvas

48" x 72"