This Maine Artist Creates Dramatic, Abstract Seascapes That Will Blow You Away: Meet MJ Benson

Artist MJ Benson loves swimming in the ocean, and the accompanying profound, visceral sense of the balance between breathing and not.  What she experiences so deeply in that realm is reflected in the play between light and dark in her abstract landscapes. MJ is highly attuned to emotional contrasts:  her sorrow over her  brother’s death from cancer in the midst of COVID generated  a renewed appreciation for her family, her friends and her life in Maine. Over the past two years, MJ poured this appreciation into her art, and her paintings soared as a result. Today’s conversation with MJ Benson provides a glimpse into an artist’s emotional experience and the impact it has on her art. 

Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube, so you never miss an episode.

MJ Benson is represented by the Portland Art Gallery of Maine. Click here to view her art.