Ben Benedict presents a critical exploration of the Landscape Genre – Variations in Landscape, drawing upon the history of art making in Southwestern Ontario as a Bricoleur (Mixed Media Artist) working in the London Regionalist Tradition. The exhibit is accompanied by a critical essay where Benedict draws a historical line from Homer Watson (1855–1936), through the Group of Seven, to the London Regionalist, to finally inserting his efforts into this lineage of original Ontario Artists.

This exhibit will coincide with a launch event of an art catalogue from my exhibit of the same name at London’s SATELLiTE Project Space, July 17-27, 2024. The catalogue includes 47 images and my supporting essay, and an introductory contribution from Professor Emeritus Madeline Lennon, UWO. The exhibit will feature smaller works to fit into the Homer Watson House Gallery specification and may include new works.

“My artistry is constructed from a wide range of materials,” says Benedict, “and draws upon my experiences and memory as well as the vast history of art making, specifically, exploration focused on landscapes.”

My work has focused on gender issues, social justice, and abstraction with the odd landscape from en plein air outings with colleagues. In tackling landscapes, I chose to apply a critical lens to both my practice and the language and iconography around the Canadian Landscape. This essay and exhibition Variations in Landscape summarize that investigation.