Nils Benson (b. 1966) is a figurative painter and draftsman whose practice is grounded in close observation of the human form, nature, and everyday environments. Working primarily in oil painting and drawing, with occasional explorations in sculpture, Benson’s work seeks resonance in representation rather than abstraction, creating images that capture light, gesture, and the subtleties of lived experience. Drawing remains central to his process, informing the structure, movement, and atmosphere of his paintings. Benson studied painting and printmaking at the Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland, Oregon, and furthered his studies at the Sichuan School of Fine Art in Chongqing, China. His exhibition history includes solo and group shows in Los Angeles, where his work has been noted for its clarity of form and painterly depth. Previous projects such as Wonderland (The Lodge, Los Angeles) highlight his commitment to figurative practice and the development of sustained bodies of work. In addition to his studio practice, Benson’s extensive experience in film production, lighting, and gallery management has shaped his sensitivity to composition, atmosphere, and exhibition contexts. These influences continue to inform the mood and staging of his paintings and drawings.

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