Polly E. Apfelbaum: Embracing Color and Texture in Fallen Paintings Polly E. Apfelbaum (born July 4, 1955) is an American contemporary visual artist celebrated for her distinctive approach to artmaking—primarily through large-scale fabric floor installations she affectionately calls “fallen paintings.” These pieces represent a bold departure from traditional painting conventions, prioritizing color and texture as primary expressive elements. Born in Abington Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, Apfelbaum’s artistic journey began with formal training at Tyler School of Art in Elkins Par…