About

ARTIST STATEMENT

Male Gender Stereotyping

As an artist deeply immersed in the exploration of cultural dynamics, my work is a subtle yet piercing investigation into the stereotypes surrounding male gender identity. In a world continually in flux, where issues of economic, political, and cultural instability abound, I seek to question the cost of historical patriarchies that have long governed our existence. What does it truly mean to be a man in a society that prescribes narrow, often detrimental roles for its men? At what cost do we maintain these constructs, not just for men, but for humanity and the planet as a whole? My journey as an artist was unexpected, yet profoundly transformative, sparked by a simple drawing class, orchestrated by the influential artist Squeak Carnwath during my time at college. This encounter opened my eyes to the expansive potential of art as a channel for dialogue and introspection. Drawing from my experiences as a student-athlete, where I played collegiate football at Middlebury College while also engaging with the political atmosphere in Washington, DC, I witnessed firsthand how patriarchal systems often reward adherence to masculine stereotypes. In my art, which includes paintings, works on paper, videos, and conceptual pieces, I aim to examine and challenge cultural male stereotypes. Using mixed media, collage, and even glitter, I create works that encourage viewers to consider the nuanced reality beneath the surface. From afar, a painting might attract with its harmonious color scheme, often using what society deems 'feminine' colors. Yet, up close, the viewer encounters a stark narrative. Through collaged images of men in diverse settings—from war zones, corporate boardrooms and sports fields—I strive to juxtapose these traditional male roles with a deeper commentary on their restricted nature. I am drawn to bold compositions and passionate about confronting the limitations imposed on men—restrictions that ultimately affect the fabric of our culture. Too often, men are pigeonholed into narrow definitions that stifle emotional expression, leading to profound personal and social repercussions. This issue is poignantly underscored by the sad reality that nearly as many Vietnam veterans have died from suicide as those who perished in combat. My art seeks not to shock, but to engage in a conversation about these stereotypes. In revealing the multi-faceted stories within these traditional frameworks, I invite a reimagining of what it means to be a man and hope to inspire a broader acceptance of diverse emotional expressions. Through this approach, my work endeavors to heal and evolve a cultural understanding of male identity that embraces both strength and vulnerability.

BIO

Benjamin Junta's journey into the art world is a testament to the unpredictable paths life can take. Born in Carmel, California, and raised in the bustling environs of Silicon Valley, his early years were far from the archetypal life of an artist. His childhood, enriched but detached from any artistic inclinations, was spent immersed in sports and academics. It wasn't until college that the dormant allure of art began to surface. While fulfilling a mere creativity requirement with a basic drawing class, Junta found himself unexpectedly drawn to the world of visual expression. Despite initial intimidation by his classmates' prowess, the mentorship of his first art professor, Squeak Carnwath—herself a paragon of encouragement—nurtured his budding interest and pivoted his academic focus toward studio art and art history.

With no artistic lineage to influence him, he carved his own path, cultivating his craft at prominent institutions like UC Davis, Middlebury College, Occidental College, the Cape Cod School of Art in Provincetown, as well as at the Santa Fe Art Institute and the Vermont Studio Center. His education was further enriched by the tutelage of notable figures such as Wolf Kahn, Bernard Chaet, and John Walker.

Post-graduation, the contours of his artistic identity took form through a bifocal lens: a critique of entrenched masculinity inspired by his experiences as a collegiate athlete, and a passion for landscape painting. The expansive vistas that landscape art captures resonated with him, yet they did not fully encompass the complexities he wished to explore. His intimate acquaintance with the "male cultures" of sports and business—a world he was raised in and embraced but also viewed critically—became a seminal influence in his broader artistic portfolio.

Ben’s technical evolution and creative methodology remain key nuances of his art practice, offering his viewers layers of intrigue and depth. What makes his art unique is its marriage of visual beauty with potent thematic explorations—an aesthetic dualism reflective of his contemplative perspectives on identity and culture and of his Californian landscapes.

Outside the confines of his studio, Ben savors interests apart from art—suggestive of a holistic approach to personal development that informs his work. While an artist at heart, he remains mindful of the significant role art plays in societal discourse, regarding it as a vehicle for reflection and change. Ben aspires to push boundaries, enrich dialogues, and ultimately, create art that not only reflects his personal journey but also speaks to universal themes and narratives.

Throughout his artistic journey, Ben has been inspired by myriad influences. He has participated in group and solo exhibitions, amassing a body of work that continues to attract both public interest and critical acclaim. He has exhibited on the East Coast, Santa Fe, New Mexico, Los Angeles, CA, Santa Barbara, CA, as well as at Stanford University and other locations in Northern California.  Locally, in Los Angeles he has exhibited with Hale Arts Space, Santa Monica, CA,  The Palos Verdes Art Center, Palos Verdes, CA,  Siren 6500, Hollywood, CA,  SPACE Arts Center, South Pasadena, CA, Beacon Arts, and Resin Art Space, Hermosa Beach, CA.  His work is in both private and corporate collections throughout the country.

CV available upon request.