Abstraction and realism converge in the mixed media paintings of Joan Benjamin. Inspired by personal experiences and journeys, Benjamin’s artistic practice is a kaleidoscopic capturing of memories. Throughout the artist’s body of work, central imagery comes into focus from a dimmed background, forging an analogy between the paintings and memory itself. Resplendent colors and a strong intimation of light draw viewers’ attentions towards the interior point of the paintings, encouraging recognition of the abstracted scenes depicted. While the exact nature of Benjamin’s subject matter is not stated, a contemplation of the natural world is signified via the portrayal of flora and fauna in many of the artist’s paintings. Pulsing with the sumptuous colors and forms found in the outdoors, these paintings provide a compelling and inventive perspective for viewers to consider.
Joan Benjamin is a graduate of the Tyler School of Art, attended University of Illinois, and is a recipient of an Artist in Residence Grant, awarded by the National Endowment for the Arts.