William Bensen Oil Paintings
William Bensen’s interest in art developed
as a young child, surrounded by a family
of artists.  His grandfather was an artisan
at the turn of the 20th century with clients
such as Queen Wilhelmina of the
Netherlands, the Posts, the Huttons, and
the Vanderbilts.  Grandfather Bensen’s
designs graced landmarks such as Mar-A-
Lago, the Biltmore estate, and American
embassies throughout Europe.  Bensen’s
father sculpted iron into creative furniture
forms.  His uncle was a photographer and
an early cinematographer who captured images of Shirley Temple
and other notables.

After earning a master’s degree in history from the University of
Delaware and a master’s degree in television production from
Brooklyn College in New York City,  Bensen followed his uncle into
the world of film and television.  As an Emmy-award-winning
producer, Bensen has worked with Turner Broadcasting, the Fox
Family Channel, and has produced a children’s television show for
NASA.  While television and film created a livelihood, Bensen’s
passion for oil painting became his center of creativity.

Long inspired by N.C. Wyeth, John Singer Sargent, Joaquin Sorolla,
and Anders Zorn, many of Bensen’s canvases capture solitude and
the play of light upon nature.  The artist states, “I am drawn to
nature.  Not just the nature that lies around us, but also the nature
that lies within.  Strength.  Solitude.  Tranquility.  The simple, yet
complex paths that weave through life.  Colors that reflect our souls.  
Nature is the stage that connects us.”   

Bensen is represented by galleries on the East Coast and has
exhibited in juried exhibits throughout.  Having earned numerous art
awards, his works are included in private collections across the  
United States.  Bensen is a member of the Oil Painters of America,
Arts Club of Washington, Chesapeake Bay Art Association, and
American Society of Marine Painters.

He and his wife were married in Risor, Norway, and currently reside in
Virginia with their toddler twins.  William and his wife often travel
within the U.S. and other world regions - which allows them the
opportunity to gather new subject material for William's art.  

Recent Honors: