I believe that art has the power to change us in a million ways. In as many ways as we the viewer are diverse, really. There are layers of conversation, levels of introspection and so on. But in my opinion the most profound way that art works is in the catharsis that takes place when we get the heart, mind, body, intention, essence of the artist that is in the painting on us, and in us. There is an act of communion that takes place when we partake of the person in the canvas, and the paint. Benny is a friend of mine. So I can say with full confidence that where he creates from, is a gift that we want on us. 

"I use all available tools: brushes, rubber brushes, palette knives, etc. I build my work contemplating shape, form, color, and line. I am a gestural mark maker and I respond to the previous marks in successive layers, in an attempt to create visceral dynamic abstracts"

So where do the layers and the colors and the construction come from, aside from the depth of his beautiful soul?

"I love people, problem solving, and mark making."

"My work is a result of my life experiences, I am a graffiti artist/painter first, and a trained artist with a degree second. My life revolves around creating work. Growing up my parents always supported and encouraged art making, my father worked as a builder/contractor, my mother did interior design, and grandmother was a painter. These skill sets influenced my fascination with problem solving, respect for material sensibility, and a love of mark making. With limited access to toys and unlimited access to tools and materials around the house, I began exploring art making and fabricating at a young age."

It's no wonder Benny has made friends all over the world and all over this town, educated with a degree in Intermedia Sculpture from the University of Utah, his real studies came from painting graffiti, graffiti style murals, and painting in all mediums for the past 25 years. 

"I have great respect for the Graffiti subculture, and my family and friends that thrive in this Arcane Arena."

Well, friend, thanks for letting yourself out into the world and thank you for giving yourself to the art on the walls for your show in our cityhomeUNDERGROUND. We are all looking forward to feeling you in our space and sharing your goodness with all the folks who are gonna get up in the face of all this bright ass paint.

exhibition opening May 19th 6:00-9:00pm | cityhomeunderground 645 E south temple