Albert Benedict-Standing Tall

A Retrospective Exhibition

"Albert Benedict—Standing Tall" — A Celebration of an Inspiring Artist & Educator Who Called Whitewater Home.

The Whitewater Arts Alliance is proud to present Albert Benedict—Standing Tall, a special exhibition celebrating the life and art of Albert Benedict, an accomplished artist whose passion and creativity left a lasting impact on students and art enthusiasts alike.

A Wisconsin native, Benedict earned his MA and MFA in ceramics and sculpture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, exhibiting his extraordinary works in galleries and art shows nationwide. His art drew inspiration from Wisconsin’s landscapes, enriched by his travels across the United States, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Europe. His deep admiration for Mexican and Native American cultures influenced his distinctive artistic style.

Benedict developed an innovative approach to sculpture, integrating traditional and experimental techniques. His hand-built and wheel-thrown ceramic pieces featured high-and low-fire glazes alongside intricate surface treatments, resulting in compelling sculptures that explored form, color, texture, and design principles.

His artistic journey began as a pattern maker, earning his Journeyman Card at Industrial Pattern and Model Works while working alongside his father. This craftsmanship laid the foundation for his dedication to the fine arts. Later, Benedict shared his love for art as a devoted educator at South Milwaukee High School, where he taught for 27 years before retiring in 1998.

Until his passing on November 26, 2022, at the age of 79, Benedict maintained his studio in Whitewater, where he continued creating and refining his diverse body of work, characterized by expressive and whimsical designs.

To honor Benedict’s extraordinary artistic legacy, the Whitewater Arts Alliance will host a commemorative exhibition in the North Gallery of the Cultural Arts Center throughout May 2025. The retrospective will feature key pieces from his career, including his early whimsical figures, the iconic Wisconsin Holstein cow sculptures, and ceramic works capturing the vibrant delicacy of blooming flowers. Many pieces will be available for purchase.

The exhibition will open with a special reception on Saturday, May 3, from 1pm-4pm in the North Gallery of the Cultural Arts Center, located at 402 W. Main St., Whitewater, WI. Guests will have the opportunity to hear personal reflections from Benedict’s family members, who will share stories and insights into his creative journey. The exhibition will be held in conjunction with the WRAP Exhibition Reception, making this event a meaningful and engaging experience for all attendees.

Join us in celebrating the life, artistic brilliance, and legacy of Albert Benedict. His work continues to inspire, and this exhibition serves as a tribute to an artist who shared his unique vision with the world.

Contact:

Kim Adams, Whitewater Arts Alliance Gallery Director

Phone: 608-201-2151

wwartsalliance@gmail.com

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