Kim Benson

Kim Benson is an Adjunct Professor in the Fine Arts Department at Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD). She holds an MFA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a BFA from the College of Visual Arts in St. Paul, MN. Her work explores abstract painting through themes like 17th-century Dutch still-life, vanitas, decay, and lace patterns, reinterpreting historical art through layered techniques involving lace, metallic leaf, and impasto surfaces.

• Affiliations: MCAD, Minneapolis-based artist.
• Education: MFA (University of Wisconsin-Madison), BFA (College of Visual Arts).

Benson’s research integrates material processes with art historical references, emphasizing transformation and decay. Recent exhibitions include Unearthed (2024, Jessica Silverman Gallery) and Long Sweet Gone (2022, HAIR+NAILS). She has held residencies at venues like La Macina di San Cresci (Italy) and Jentel Foundation (Wyoming).

Her works often blend Renaissance influences with contemporary abstraction, using lace and geometric patterns to evoke duality between form and decay. Awards include residencies that highlight her contributions to the art community.