Norcross Art Fest: Beeb Benson

Art Fest begins this morning at 10 a.m. in Historic Norcross. This is our final installment in a series of profiles with artists showing their work. 

Mixed media artist Beeb Benson is a two-year Norcross Art Fest vendor who creates acrylic pieces on board and canvas. Before the festival, we asked her a few questions on what inspires her and how she fell into mixed media.

Under what genre is your art classified as? 

Mixed media.

How would you describe your art to a complete stranger?

I would describe my art as whimsical acrylics on board or canvas. The subject matter is usually dogs, cats and other animals. I also paint kids with three-dimensional items on pieces of roofing tin. 

How long have you been producing art?

I started painting when we moved to Florida about ten years ago from Knoxville, Tenn.

How did you first get started in art?

My brother is an artist. When we first moved to Florida and I needed something to do, my brother encouraged me to experiment with his acrylics. I got hooked painting whimsical scenes on scrap wood. From there, I progressed to painting dogs, cats and other critters on wood cutouts. Last year, I decided I needed a change and switched to mixed media but still concentrate on animals. Animals are fun because I can add expressions and personality. 

Who are your art heroes?

Jim Henson ("The Muppets") was my hero when I was growing up. I wanted to work in an environment that was that creative. I loved all the characters and was fascinated with the materials and detail involved in each piece. 

What inspires you?

All types of art… paintings, three-dimensional crafts, funky jewelry, etc. I love to find a completely new process or product that is created out of unexpected items or even junk. 

What is your favorite piece in your own collection? Why?

I love all my whimsical pieces, but my favorite right now is a large, realistic mixed-media piece of a black Labrador smelling a flower. It’s probably my favorite, simply because the more realistic style is very different for me.

Do you have a website?

Yes, but my site is in the process of being updated with my mixed media pieces. My website is www.BeebBensonArts.com.

Where do you live? 

Seagrove Beach, Fla. It’s located next to Seaside or between Destin and Panama City on the Florida Panhandle.

Are you a full-time artist, or do you have another occupation? 

I’m a full-time artist.

How many times has your art been featured in the Norcross Arts Fest?

I’ve participated in the Norcross Arts Festival twice. The festival has a wonderful location and atmosphere.