Benna Holden

The subject of my work is often where the sky and water meet. Born and raised in Long Island, NY, the Atlantic coast is where I feel most at home. Frequent visits to the beaches of Fire Island provide me with an endless source of inspiration. In my process, I push the boundaries of realism into abstraction, focusing on the energy of a place rather than its literal representation. In doing so, I invite viewers to reflect on their own personal experiences through my work.​

My abstract works are an exploration of the emotions stirring within me. Central to my intuitive process is the theme of inner peace. I aim to create layered works that capture a mix of despondency and tranquility -- feelings that define my soul. The colorful patterns I employ offer a visual manifestation of my belief that all people are universally connected. This idea is beautifully encapsulated in the poignant lyrics, “We share the same biology regardless of ideology." These words, even more resonant today than they were nearly 40 years ago, continue to influence my creative journey.
​
I live and work in New York City and studied at the Art Students League of New York. I held a residency at Trestle Gallery in Brooklyn, NY and since exhibited my work throughout ...

The Art Students League of New York

2025: Synesthetic Soundscapes, Treat Gallery•New York, NY
2025: Sunset Park Open Studios, Brooklyn, NY
2025: Stars In The Arts, New York, NY
2023: Ice Cream Exhibition, Islip Arts Gallery, Bay Shore, NY
2022: Superfine Art Fair, New York, NY
2021: Trestle Gallery, Brooklyn, NY
2020: Ground Floor Gallery, Brooklyn, NY
2019: Trestle Gallery, Brooklyn, NY
2019: La Bodega Gallery, Brooklyn, NY
2019: Greenpoint Gallery, Brooklyn, NY
2019: Trestle Gallery, Brooklyn, NY
2019: South Brooklyn Open Studios, Brooklyn, NY
2018: The Apthorp Building, New York
2018: Lincoln Towers Building, New York
2017: Chaffetz Lindsey, New York
2017: Kalib & Kalib, New York
2017: Phyllis Harriman Mason Gallery, New York
2016: Kalib & Kalib Law Firm, New York
2016: Gifts of Art, National Arts Club, New York
2016: The Conference Board, New York
2016: Pottery Barn, New York
2016: Benefit for NYC's Homeless, New York
2016: Squire Patton Boggs, New York
2015: Squire Patton Boggs, New York
2015: NY International Arbitration Center, New York
2015: Clothesline Art Fair, Guild Hall, East Hampton
2014: A Natural Affair, Linus Galleries, Los Angeles
2014: Vision, Six Summit Gallery, New York
2014: Collage + Assemblage, Phyllis Harriman Mason Gallery, New York
...