"Arrival" by Ben Skaar - Edition of 20
Standing above Manhattan’s financial district on a stormy evening, observing the 9/11 tribute lights.
As one exits their teenage years, holding onto a youthful spirit begins to require upkeep. In my case, I feel art has provided a foundation to maintain my childlike curiosity and continue my desire to learn more about the world around me. It has fueled me to continue forward with the perspective of an adolescent, who is keen to test the limits and break some rules.
Closing out the second decade of my life, I achieved a number of personal milestones. I moved to New York City pursuing an education at NYU. I traveled to three new countries. I had my first handful of gallery showings. I went skydiving for the first time. I began to study modern and traditional art. And above all, I began to find clarity in the future of my medium, which I have strived to veer from surface-level aesthetic to a more rooted visual discussion.
This next decade will be dedicated to evolving my abilities in storytelling and observing those who are many years ahead of me in their artistic careers. There will always be more to learn.
-Ben (8/11/2023)