Interview
Ben Fink
Born in 1963 in Baltimore, Ben Fink turned to art amidst adversity and relocation after the deaths of both parents. He studied at Memphis College of Art and the University of Memphis, where he created the "Mill Street" series, later exhibited in New York under curator Alen Frame. During the 1990s, Fink expanded his artistic range, working on projects like "From Another Room" and a series on the Radical Faeries, curated by Patty Carroll and showcased at the Chicago Art Institute. His 1997 move to New York inspired the "Shadow Realms" series, known for its haunting landscapes and gaining wide acclaim. Fink's recent works, "Noble Deeds" and "Modern Mythology," blend photography, illustration, and physical painting to challenge societal narratives, particularly gender roles, echoing themes from his earlier Radical Faeries series. His personal and socially conscious art encourages reflection on history, identity, and the human condition, highlighting the interconnectedness of self and society.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My artistic path has been deeply influenced by a sequence of unique and defining life events. I was born in 1963 in Baltimore, Maryland, and from the beginning, my life seemed anything but ordinary. The early loss of my parents profoundly shaped my childhood. My mother's battle with illness and her eventual passing, followed by the loss of my father in my teens, left indelible marks on my life. This led to a nomadic existence, moving between Maryland, Tennessee, and North Carolina foster homes. School was a challenge, with reading and writing not coming easily to me and a feeling of disconnection from my classmates and the usual educational journey.
However, through these hardships, I discovered my sanctuary - an inner world where I could express myself freely. This was where I started to explore art - a space where I felt understood and could shield my inner self from the world's harshness. My early experiences with art were a form of escape, then a way to process and understand the complexities of events and emotions that shaped my early years."
Navigating through my educational challenges and cultivating my inner world significantly shaped my sense of self and my ability to communicate. These aspects of my life offered immense challenges and a unique lens through which to view the world. During my youth, as I grappled with understanding same-sex attraction, I often found myself in environments that were neither accepting nor safe. This harsh reality forced me to conceal my true identity, further reinforcing the need to strengthen the protective shell I had built. These formative experiences - overcoming educational obstacles, creating a personal haven, and confronting my identity struggles - played a crucial role in my artistic evolution. They laid the groundwork for a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression, which eventually became my artistic foundation.
In the last years of high school, under the guidance and encouragement of an art teacher, I discovered a path that truly resonated with me. The decision to pursue higher education marked a significant turning point. The revelation that I had dyslexia brought much-needed clarity to the academic difficulties I had faced, opening up new avenues for learning and creative expression. This diagnosis was not just a label but a key that unlocked understanding and empowered me to navigate my educational journey more effectively.
I began my art studies at Memphis College of Art at age 19 in the early 1980s and then transferred to the University of Memphis two years later. It was during this time that I embraced my identity as an openly gay young man. Art school brought financial and physical independence and opened a new chapter in my life. It was here that I experienced love for the first time and stepped into my own identity. This period marked a profound transformation, allowing me to explore and accept my true self. The arts became more than a discipline; they were my haven, allowing me to express myself freely and without constraints. This journey through academia was instrumental in shaping the artistic vision that would define my future work.
My studies were diverse and deep, encompassing various disciplines that later influenced my unique artistic style. I immersed myself in painting, exploring the complexities of color, form, and emotional expression through this timeless medium. Graphic design was another critical area of my study, where I learned the power of visual communication and the importance of visual aesthetics in conveying messages. Photography played a vital role in my academic journey, providing a means to capture and interpret the world around me. It taught me how to tell stories through images and to freeze moments in time. This allowed me to preserve these moments and manipulate perceptions of reality afterward.
Art history provided a crucial context for my studies, connecting me to the rich depths of artistic expression through the ages. Here, I gained an appreciation for the evolution of art and the myriad of styles and movements that have shaped the art world. These academic experiences were instrumental in shaping my artistic voice. They gave me the tools and knowledge I needed to explore and express my ideas creatively.
The skills and insights I acquired during my education were the foundation of my artistic career, marking the beginning of a journey that saw me transition from a student to a more profound creator of art. After leaving school to support myself, I entered a new chapter by apprenticing in a commercial photography studio. This phase, crucial for my growth, involved refining my skills in commercial photography, understanding the craft's nuances, and grasping the industry's dynamics. This experience expanded my artistic perspective, allowing me to observe and engage with various subjects and styles. As I gained confidence and expertise, I established my own business, driven by a desire for creative control and the freedom to explore my artistic vision. Running my studio allowed me to blend commercial discipline with personal creativity, resulting in a richer, more diverse body of work.
While working as a commercial photographer, I embarked on personal projects that profoundly reflected my life experiences and the world that surrounded me. One notable project was the "Mill Street" series, a documentation of the lives of black families in downtown Memphis. These families resided in shotgun shacks that felt like relics of another era, and their stories served as a poignant portrayal of survival and resilience amidst societal neglect. This series delved into their humanity, all against the backdrop of the urban landscape in the neighborhood around the studio where I worked.
During this period, I also undertook another significant body of work that focused on male and female nudes, with a particular emphasis on the HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1980s. This series represented a deeply personal exploration of a community in turmoil with whom I had a profound connection. It captured the vulnerability, pain, and raw human emotion of a community grappling with a devastating epidemic. It was a means of processing the stark reality of friends and acquaintances battling this illness and a heartfelt tribute to their remarkable strength and resilience.
During the 1990s, my commercial photography business in Memphis experienced substantial growth, leading to collaborations with major corporations such as FedEx, UPS, International Paper, and various players in the banking industry. My focus primarily revolved around producing annual reports and advertising campaigns for these prominent clients. This flourishing commercial success was complemented by my ongoing pursuit of personal artistic endeavors, which I diligently worked on during quieter moments in my studio.
The personal works were always visible in my studio, catching the eyes of clients who would commission special projects. Notable among these was the creation of evocative images for the Boys Club of America. My artistic work transformed during this period, taking on a deeper and more exploratory character. Projects like "From Another Room" emerged from this phase, thanks to my collaboration with fellow artists. This project aimed to convey messages through imagery and symbolism that might be too perilous or contentious to express in words. This practice of embedding hidden meanings in my art swiftly became a significant and integral part of my thinking, underscoring the profound impact of my visual language, and is still present today.
Another significant project was documenting the Radical Faeries at Short Mountain Sanctuary. Here, I embraced a more brazen approach in my imagery, presenting nude portraits and gender-bending themes. Working with large-scale black-and-white prints, often exceeding 40 x 50 inches, I used Polaroid 55 and distressed the negatives to create impactful visuals. These prints, almost larger than life, demanded attention to detail and were exhibited in Memphis and beyond, including a notable exhibition curated by Patty Carroll at the Art Institute of Chicago. Concurrently, my series of nudes, including self-portraits, continued to evolve, delving into themes of sexuality and gender roles. In the late 90’s, visiting Italy to see a friend led to the creation of a new black-and-white series using small plastic cameras. These works, reminiscent of charcoal drawings and often sized at 50 x 50 inches, captured haunting architecture and had multiple exhibitions. By the late 1990’s, my focus shifted from extensive corporate work to more editorial projects on the commercial side.
My reputation for shooting food caught the attention of magazines in New York, leading to my relocation to NYC in 1997. This move began a long stint of shooting cookbooks for major publishers like Clarkson and Potter, Artisan Publishing, Food & Wine, Saveur, Food Arts, and many more, spanning the 2000s to 2022. This work extended to significant food brands like Hershey's, McDonald's, Burger King, and prominent restaurants, eventually leading me to direct TV commercials for the food industry. Throughout these commercial successes, I consistently focused on my fine art series, ensuring that my artistic voice and exploration continued alongside my professional achievements. This commercial and personal work balance has been a hallmark of my career, reflecting my dedication to both aspects of my photographic and artistic journey. The 'Shadow Realms' Series: Capturing Memories and Landscapes Across Continents (2003–2007). Between 2003 and 2007, I embarked on creating the "Shadow Realms" series, a project that marked not only a significant artistic evolution but also a personal journey through landscapes filled with memories and meanings. This body of work was a departure into full-color photography, drawing inspiration from the Hudson River School of painting.
I infused these images with saturated, surreal colors and lighting, producing haunting portraits of houses and landscapes that resonated with beauty and an undercurrent of danger. The essence of "Shadow Realms" lay in its 'psychological landscapes" - scenes that transcended their physical beauty to hint at more profound, complex narratives. Each location I chose for this series held a personal connection, often intertwined with childhood memories and travels. The series began with me revisiting the South, specifically Arkansas, where memories of my grandparents' farm provided a rich tapestry of emotions and images. The landscapes there, imbued with personal history, were a starting point for exploring the interplay of beauty and eeriness that characterizes this series. Expanding beyond my initial geographical boundaries, I took "Shadow Realms" to the haunting landscapes of upstate New York. This region's serene yet mysterious scenery offered a perfect canvas for my exploration of emotional undercurrents masked by natural beauty.
My travels to Europe further enriched the series as I continued to photograph landscapes and cityscapes in Italy, Spain, France, and beyond. These European scenes, each with distinct historical and cultural backdrops, added depth and diversity to the series. I even extended this exploration to Asia, capturing compelling scenes outside Shanghai, where the interplay of ancient and modern provided a new dimension to the project. The "Shadow Realms" series, a collection deeply rooted in my experiences and travels, resonated with a broader audience. Its reception was humbling as it found its way into various publications and art shows. I was particularly honored by its recognition in the communication arts, reflecting the series' ability to connect emotionally with its viewers. The exhibitions, including one in a Chelsea gallery in New York and others across different galleries and institutions, allowed me to share this journey with a broader audience. For me, "Shadow Realms" was more than just a series of photographs; it was an exploration of memory and emotion, a reflection of the landscapes I had traversed physically and metaphorically.”
What inspires you?
“Throughout my artistic journey, I have drawn inspiration from a diverse palette of renowned masters and cultural experiences. The ethereal brushwork and vivid details of Renaissance artists such as Jan van Eyck, the divine anatomical precision of Michelangelo, and the dramatic compositions of Titian have all shaped my approach to visual narratives. The intensity and chiaroscuro techniques of Baroque artists like Caravaggio and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo have also influenced my use of light and shadow, adding depth and emotion to my work. Johann Heinrich Schönfeld's dynamic scenes have inspired me to infuse a sense of movement and storytelling into my compositions. In photography, the pioneering works of Edward Steichen and Julia Margaret Cameron have guided my exploration of portraiture and the poignancy of capturing the human essence. Robert Mapplethorpe’s bold and unapologetic portrayal of the body has empowered me to express raw human form and sexuality with honesty and artistry.
My time documenting the Radical Faeries at Short Mountain Sanctuary introduced me to a unique and underrepresented community whose bold self-expression and resilience have left an indelible mark on my artistic conscience. The LGBTQ International Court System's members, with their rich tapestry of stories and struggles, have inspired my "Noble Deeds" project, pushing me to blend photography, digital techniques, collage, and encaustic painting in my portraiture. The vast reservoir of literature and folklore has served as a backbone for "Modern Mythology," allowing me to reimagine traditional narratives and explore themes of sexuality, sorrow, and redemption. These stories have been instrumental in enriching my work with a narrative depth that complements the visual experience. Each of these influences, from the old masters to contemporary cultural narratives, has coalesced within my artistic practice, allowing me to create visually arresting works rich in storytelling and imbued with the complexities of human experiences. They continue to inspire me as I strive to reflect, voice, and challenge through my art.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“The themes I pursue in my work are deeply rooted in my personal experiences, societal observations, and the rich influences of art history. I am drawn to explore identity, particularly within the LGBTQ community, the human form, and the nuanced complexities of self-expression in environments that may not always be accepting or safe. My work often delves into psychological landscapes, revealing the unspoken narratives and emotional undercurrents beneath the surface of our interactions and environments. Themes such as resilience in the face of adversity, the celebration of marginalized communities, and the raw human experience of crisis and triumph are recurrent in my projects. The "Mill Street" series, for example, reflects on survival and resilience, while my nudes, centered around the HIV/AIDS crisis, confront vulnerability and the stark reality of a community in turmoil. The underlying message of my work is the power of art as a catalyst for reflection, conversation, and change. Through visual storytelling, I aim to give voice to the often unheard, challenge societal norms, and highlight the beauty and complexity of human existence. My series "From Another Room" and "Shadow Realms" encapsulate this, inviting viewers to confront life's ambiguities and find beauty and meaning in light and darkness. In "Noble Deeds" and "Modern Mythology," I further express this message by interweaving photographic artistry with digital techniques and narrative to create a legacy of regal reflections and epic tales that transcend time. These works testify to the idea that every individual's story is worthy of being told. Art can be a profound medium for capturing and celebrating the breadth of the human experience. Through my art, I advocate for inclusivity, understanding, and the recognition of the profound impact that every person can have on the world.”
“The themes I pursue in my work are deeply rooted in my personal experiences, societal observations, and the rich influences of art history.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work is a complex blend of visual and narrative storytelling, where the boundary between photography, illustration, and painting is often blurred. It is deeply introspective and personal yet universally resonant in exploring human experiences. Each piece is a confluence of my life’s journey, challenges, and the myriad influences that have shaped my perspective. My art is a series of psychological landscapes and character studies that delve into identity, resilience, and the human condition. My art, whether it captures the raw vulnerability of the human form or the storied wrinkles of a lived-in face, seeks to evoke an emotional response and to tell a story that might otherwise remain untold. Emotionally charged and often set against stark or surreal backdrops, my compositions are both a reflection of the inner world and a commentary on the external. The use of saturated colors, dramatic lighting, and a careful interplay of shadows speaks to the influence of the Renaissance and Baroque masters. At the same time, my thematic focus on marginalized communities and social commentary echoes the boldness of contemporary narrative art. My work is not just an act of creation but a revelation - unveiling the layers of complexity beneath appearances. Through series like "Noble Deeds" and "Modern Mythology," I engage with subjects as diverse as the philanthropic legacy of the LGBTQ community and the reinterpretation of ancient myths within a post-millennial context. In essence, my art is visual linguistics, speaking in the language of light, shadow, form, and color, inviting the audience to engage in a dialogue that transcends the confines of the traditional canvas. It is a celebration of diversity, a challenge to conventions, and a heartfelt inquiry into the spectrum of human emotion and experience.”
Which artists influence you most?
“My artistic sensibilities are deeply rooted in a blend of two worlds: the painters' traditional canvas and the photographers' evocative realism. Among painters, I find myself inspired by the intricate detail and pioneering realism of Jan van Eyck, the dramatic chiaroscuro of Caravaggio, the rich color palettes of Titian, the expressive narratives of Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, the complex and fantastical scenes of Hieronymus Bosch, and the mystical and allegorical richness of William Blake. Each artist, in their own way, has contributed to my understanding of how to portray the intangible essence of a subject through the tangible medium of my work. Parallel to these painters, the world of photography has had an equally profound impact on my imagery. The soft, almost ethereal portraits by Julia Margaret Cameron, the innovative and stylized compositions of Edward Steichen, and the raw, emotive power captured by Richard Avedon have all influenced my approach to photographic storytelling. The candid street scenes by Garry Winogrand, the intimate and often controversial depictions of the American South by Sally Mann, the documentary honesty of Walker Evans, and the stark, challenging works of Diane Arbus have taught me the power of the photographic lens to capture and convey the complexities of the human condition. In my artistic practice, I continually strive to harmonize the brushstroke with the shutter, the timeless with the instantaneous, and historical depth with contemporary insight. The synergy of these influences is where my creativity thrives, allowing me to explore and express the multifaceted narratives that define my work.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process is deeply personal and introspective, originating from a place of emotion and thematic exploration. It often begins with the seed of an idea, perhaps sparked by a piece of literature, a poignant poem, a compelling short story, and most often, a work of art that I'm captivated by. This initial inspiration sets the stage for a deeper emotional and conceptual exploration. I am drawn to the richness of historical imagery, delving into the annals of art history. This research phase is crucial, as it informs the aesthetic of my work and enriches its emotional depth. Once I have a clear emotional idea or theme, I bring it to life in a studio setting. Here, I work with figures, positioning them against plain backgrounds. These deeply collaborative sessions focus on capturing the subjects' essence, histories, and stories. This stage is reminiscent of classical portraiture yet infused with a contemporary perspective. The transformation of these initial captures is where my artistic vision unfolds. I create elaborate backgrounds around the figures, meticulously crafting settings that complement and enhance the narrative. This process involves a digital alchemy of sorts, where I merge the captured images with meticulously chosen elements to weave a new story that is both timeless and deeply personal. The narrative aspect of my work is crucial. Each piece tells a story, considering not just the historical context or artistic inspiration but also the subjects' personal histories. This narrative layer adds depth and meaning, inviting viewers to engage with the work intimately. Finally, the images are transferred onto watercolor paper or canvas, transitioning from digital creations to tangible works of art. At this stage, I often paint on the surfaces, adding layers of texture and color. This process allows me to imbue each piece with a unique character, blending the precision of digital art with the organic touch of traditional painting. Some of these works are large, creating an immersive experience that draws viewers into my narrative world. My creative process is a journey from concept to creation, blending historical inspiration with personal narratives, digital artistry with traditional painting techniques, all coming together to form a unique and emotive body of work.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“The role of an artist in society is multifaceted and ever-evolving, embodying a spectrum of responsibilities and opportunities to impact the world. At its core, an artist's role is to reflect society to itself, offering a mirror that captures the zeitgeist of the times. This reflection is not just a passive replication but an active interpretation, often infused with honesty and, at times, a necessary brutality. It's about highlighting the realities, challenges, and triumphs of the era in which the artist creates. However, the artist's role extends beyond mere reflection. It's also about upliftment and providing an escape to realms of fantasy and desire. Art can transport viewers to different places and times, offering respite or inspiration. It's about creating spaces where imagination and reality intersect, where viewers can explore possibilities beyond the confines of their everyday experiences. Importantly, an artist's work is a journey through life and thoughts, a personal narrative shaped by unique perspectives and influenced by their environment. Each artist brings a distinct voice to the conversation, contributing to a diverse and rich cultural tapestry. This personal touch adds depth and relatability to art, making it a conduit for empathy, understanding, and human connection. As society evolves, so does the role of the artist. With the advent of new technologies and mediums, artists have unprecedented tools to express their visions and reach wider audiences. The digital age has democratized art creation and distribution, allowing a more inclusive and diverse range of voices to be heard. Furthermore, as global issues like climate change, social justice, and political unrest become more pressing, the artist's role as a commentator and catalyst for change becomes increasingly vital. Artists can provoke thought, inspire action, and bring attention to causes that might otherwise be overlooked. In summary, the role of an artist in society is to reflect, uplift, and challenge. It is about being a mirror, a window, and a voice. As society changes, the artist's role will undoubtedly adapt, finding new ways to engage, inspire, and provoke thought in an ever-changing world.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“My recent exhibitions include: Florence, Italy BiAnnual Exhibition (Invitation Only), 2007; Shadow Realms, Sara Tecchia Gallery Exhibition, New York, NY (2007) - Solo Show; Houston Center for Photography, 12th Annual Juried Exhibition, Houston, TX, 2006; 621 Gallery, ANJE, Tallahassee, FL; Energy Gallery, 2-d-2, Online Exhibition; Caelum Gallery, Curator’s Choice, New York, NY; among others.”
