Christian Benefiel

Mooring (buoy) 2007 102x52x52" Wood, Steel	Mooring 2006 Dimensions Variable Wood, Steel	Untitled (structure) 2006-2007 Dimensions Variable Wood, Steel	Untitled (structure) 2006-2007 Dimensions Variable Wood, Steel	Untitled 2006 84"x24"x24" Wood, Copper

Inflatable Sails Two 2007 Dimensions Variable Dacron, Mixed media	Inflatable Sail One 2007 Dimensions Variable Dacron, Mixed media	A long walk off the short pier 2007 Dimensions Variable Nylon, Broken Cast Iron, Mixed Media	Raindrops keep falling on my shed 2006 Dimensions Variable (36"x90") Rust on Canvas, Pulled nail	Untitled 2007 300cm x 300cm x 15cm Rust on canvas, Loose Nails

Artist's information

Christian Benefiel CV (PDF 33KB)

Christian Benefiel statement (PDF 23KB)

Artist Statement

As an artist I Find it hard to write an all encompassing paragraph that accurately describes my entire body of work. I often feel as if I work as an inventor would, if that inventor were so inclined to make art. Working in different directions as inspiration leads me, I see a body of work as a problem with several solutions, some more elegant than others. The work I create is intended to be inviting and challenging at the same time. The materials I use are often chosen to deconstruct the precious or sacred attributes commonly associated with the gallery space. In conjunction with this I often try to incorporate an imperative action on the part of the viewer. While the pieces often rest on a principle aesthetic, the true impact of the piece is often brought about through direct, often tactile interaction on behalf of the observer. The material is meant to be touched, the balance meant to be disturbed and each success should be challenged. Ideally, each piece lives a sort of static life, until the viewer, either voluntarily or involuntarily sets off its full potential.