Benjamin Rodrigo

Artist Statement

I create from a place of curiosity, with a desire for deeper understanding of self and to grow a unique vision of poetic illustration. Something familiar but different. My hope is that art can communicate joy, empowerment and inspiration outward. Drawing and paintings has always been a way for me to explore world building with play and whimsy against a reality that often feels serious in unpleasant ways. Themes that I enjoy exploring in my work includes themes of nature, emotions, psychedelia, surrealism, dreams, illusions, and reflection. This is achieved visually through recognizable iconography, objects and symbolism in vibrant electric color palates. Settings and scenes frequently include decorated scenes of rooms and imagined spaces, landscapes that blend natural realism and imagined botany dotted with beings and creatures. Ultimately, my hope is to make art that communicates dreams and emotions as they are.