Category
2026, Painting (Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor)Bio:
Brenda Hopkins is a self-taught oil and acrylic painter. She is a native of the Metro East and is now based in Maryville, IL. Brenda was first introduced to art by her grandmother, an accomplished artist and sculptor. Those early experiences sparked a lifelong passion that continues to shape her artistic voice. After retiring, Brenda’s interest in painting glass and ice led her to her passion of painting for the enthusiast – whether it be whiskey, wine, beer, or cocktails. Brenda’s artwork has been exhibited throughout the St. Louis and Illinois regions including notable venues such as Schmidt, Heartland, and Green Root galleries, Nistenhaus Warehouse, Lemp Lofts, Saks St. Louis, Edwardsville Art Fair, Midwest Salute to the Arts, and the Alton Art Expo. She held a solo exhibit at Lemp Lofts during the 2025 St. Louis Bourbon Festival and currently maintains a solo exhibit at Bin 51 in Edwardsville, IL. Brenda was honored with the Mayor’s Choice Award at the 2025 Midwest Salute to the Arts in Fairview Heights for her evocative painting titled “Whiskey.” More recently, she received an Award of Merit at Green Root Gallery for her painting “Mirror 6”. Brenda participates in painting workshops and maintains a presence in the St. Louis/Metro art community.
Artist Statement:
I paint for the enthusiast. My husband’s passion for whiskey quickly became a source of inspiration in my own creative journey where my unique style and collections began to take shape. In my paintings, I love exploring the playful flair of the martini, the relaxed spirit of the cocktail, the endless variety of wines, and the rich, dramatic complexity of whiskey. I work primarily with oil and acrylic on canvas which allows me to express the full depth and vibrancy of each subject. My art is liquor-centric, where each piece is meant to spark conversation, evoke mood, and celebrate the culture around the glass. My work is characterized by using colors that bring depth and emotion, finding the balance of fine detail, artistic freedom, and imagination.