ARTIST STATEMENT

Painting the portraits of people of color is an avenue for me to become more familiar with the circumstances and history of social and racial injustice in the United States. Behind each face is a story that, even as a septuagenarian, helps me grow as a person and reminds me, in the words of Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman, “there is always light.”

As a privileged white man, I constantly ask myself with these paintings, “am I being appropriate, am I being presumptuous?” Along with reading books that focus on these issues, I find that the act of painting these portraits draws me closer to the truth of our history - good and bad - and creates a personal alliance with those fighting for change. The paintings are my way of honoring those who marched and protested and legislated and were not afraid “to get into good trouble.” (John Lewis).

It is emotional for me to paint the faces of these honorable people. I think about my past and wonder why I did not get into good trouble; the opportunities were certainly there. I can’t undo the past, but I can share these portraits, my beliefs, and my voice.  I hope they contribute to the conversation.

- Jeff Benesi

THERE IS ALWAYS LIGHT VIDEO

ARTIST TALK

We had the opportunity to meet with Jeff and learn more about his art series. To view the recording, click here.