We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Benjamin Machesky a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Benjamin, thanks for joining us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?
For as long as I can remember, I have had an artistic talent that has evolved tremendously throughout my life. I first noticed it when I was in high school and then began to hone it as I went through college, eventually graduating in 2018 with a Bachelor’s Degree in fine arts. I was looking for a place where I could show the world my artistic talent and that’s when I met some good friends from an autism-based organization known as the Autism Alliance of Michigan. They helped me enter the world of art sales and have assisted me in sharing my art and talent in various markets. These shows have been a nice supplemental income in addition to my full time employment at Pure Data Services (a document-shredding company.) In recent years, I’ve begun to wonder if it was time for me to explore more of my passions and express my talents in other places. This is why, beginning this fall, I’m beginning studies in zoology in pursuit of a Masters Degree in that area. While pursuing studies in this field, I’m optimistic that it can inspire new creativity while learning.
Benjamin, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Throughout my college education, I realized that my greatest talent was drawing art pieces in mostly charcoal and pastel. Some of my favorite art pieces to draw are animals, Detroit icons, and famous landmarks. When people buy or shop my website, they often commission pieces for me to draw. They provide me with a picture, give me details, and depending on how much detail the picture has, I draw it within a few days. It gives me pleasure and joy to see people excited and inspired by my art. I love that I have numerous repeat customers that follow my art shows and website.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, there are two rewarding aspects of being an artist. First, expressing my interests in art and second, seeing my art inspire others. When I draw things that really fascinate me such as animals, I get to express my passion to others in a creative and colorful way. To me, transferring an image from picture to paper is a great way for me to show my interpretation of the subject. When I finish it, it feels satisfying to see how hard I’ve worked and how well it turned out even though there’s times that it’s a lengthy process. When people see my art on my website or at my shows, it’s humbling when they tell me how talented and creative that I am. It’s also great seeing people buy my art, knowing they’ll be displayed in various places so that they can potentially be seen by others. Being an artist is very hard work, but it’s also rewarding when the hard work pays off.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
In recent times, I’ve had a burning desire to see more of the world outside of the United States. I long to see the many sights the world has to offer and explore places that are home to fascinating wildlife. World travels are an important goal in my life. The money I’ve earned from my shows have supplemented my living expenses. I’ve recently decided to pursue the study of zoology, I’m hoping to learn more about wildlife so I can earn a place in the field and eventually find a way to see other parts of the world. Much of the wildlife my pictures are based on come from various parts of the world. If I can earn enough money from selling my art plus study hard in zoology classes, I will be able to fulfill my dream and visit the places I’ve longed to see live and in person.
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