MFreeZone:Martin J Benoit, WFA
Louisiana artist, Martin J Benoit, WFA has been producing beautiful works in pen-&-ink for over a decade. Flowers in bloom, machinery, people on the move and at rest, scenes of breathtaking beauty; all and more are represented in Martin's works.
Capturing the images of his world in pen-&-ink since the early 1980's, he has fine-tuned his highly-detailed ink works to produce drawings of intense detail. Viewed from a few feet or across a room, the incredible detail of Martin's work gives life and depth to the drawings.
"His Father's Footsteps"
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Over the years, my associations with visitors to shows and exhibits have been rewarding in many ways. On one such occasion, a customer mentioned that she had a photo from the 1930's of her grandfather as a young boy next to a car in her family's backyard. He was dressed up in his father's hat, with boots and a pipe. I said I would like to see it and later that day she returned with the photo. I instantly fell in love with the scene and asked to do a drawing of it. She agreed and "His Father's Footsteps" was born.
The drawing, although only 8" tall and 6" wide, has a great deal of detail with the focus primarily on the young boy. Background elements add to the overall appearance without detracting from the subject. Using the dot technique (or pointillism for the purists) softened the subject (boy) and makes him stand out from his surroundings. Light color clothing and vertical grass lines add further contrast.
My interest in this work stems from looking over my 10-year professional career and contrasting it to my Dad's. A few parallels stand out. He began farming in his early 30's. He had a good-paying job offshore in the oil industry, but gave it up to pursue his dream. With a family, a mortgage, and a debt on his farm equipment, he persisted throughout rough times, lean years, and all the trials and tribulations. Twenty-five years later, my dad still farms. His happiness is evident whenever I visit the farm and talk with him about the crop for the year. For a symbol of success, I need look no farther than my Dad. My professional career began at the same age and with similar challenges. I use many aspects his life as a guide.
A few years ago, I presented him with the original drawing of "His Father's Footsteps" for Father's Day. He responded that he would be glad to have a print instead so that I could sell the original to help me continue on with my dream. I knew then that it was the right gift. The original hangs in his home where he can see it everyday. And we both continue on with our dreams.
To view the many other works available, visit Martin's website. You'll find information Martin's works, a Q&A page, an Online Catalog, Recommended Sites to visit, and you can register to win a print in his monthly contest.
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