Benjamin Herndon

Artist Statement  

In my work I am interested in creating a quiet conversation between material interactions, subtle compositional intention, and optical experience. My painting practice involves a time-consuming, layered preparation of a surface composed of gelatin, marble dust, and pigments on linen, which become lustrous grounds for subtle, minimal silverpoint drawings. The fine lines and subtle variations in the grounds are at times nearly invisible until seen very close or at just the right angle. Because of this, the viewer’s proximity to the work, as well as motion relative to sources of light can profoundly change what is perceived.