Ben Evely, a contemporary artist based in Vancouver, BC, is known for creating vivid, emotive landscapes and abstract compositions that reflect the beauty and dynamic energy of the natural spaces. Born and raised in Banff, A.B. on Treaty 7 Territory, Ben draws inspiration from both natural and man-made forms. Their work often explores the interplay between light, texture, and colour, capturing the interplay of organic and synthetic and the essence of nature’s fleeting moments.
After completing their Bachelor of Visual Arts with a minor of Social Practice and Community Engagement from Emily Carr University of Art and Design, Evely has recently exhibited with The Kelowna Art Gallery, The Art Shop Vancouver, and Art Gallery of Golden. Evely regularly collaborates with the local community and other artists through public art and group exhibitions. Known for using a variety of mediums, including acrylic paint, digital and physical collage, polymer clay, found objects, and latex paint, Evely experiments with shape and line to bring emphasis, movement, and sometimes comedy, to each piece.
-Written by Maddy Phillips, partner
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Which ‘hood are you in?
I live around Main Street in the Riley Park-Little Mountain neighbourhood, in East Vancouver, the unceded territories of Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
What do you do?
I’m a visual artist, primarily a painter. Lately, I’ve been working on murals and community art projects during the summer, and focusing on studio work in the winter. On the side, I work a few shifts in a shipping warehouse for my partner’s family business, Daniadown Quilts. I moved from my hometown of Banff to study visual arts and community engagement at Emily Carr University in 2014. A common thread in my work is the interplay of organic and synthetic elements, and exploring perceptions of natural spaces. Before focusing on being an artist, I competed in and coached Freeride skiing. Sports like skiing and skateboarding have been a big part of my life and a creative outlet. I ended up shifting my lifestyle away from extreme sports after multiple TBIs and other injuries. My art practice has been vital in helping me recover and find a new niche within creative communities. I hope to share the healing potential of art with others.
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on a travelling exhibition with my friend and fellow artist Nahanni Mckay, called The General Store. The project explores the commodification of the natural world within outdoor recreation and tourism culture, featuring work inspired by kitschy souvenir aesthetics. Its debut was at the Kelowna Art Gallery, and is up at the Art Gallery of Golden until October 12, before coming to Artsplace in Canmore from November 13 – December 19, 2024. I always have a series of self-directed or commissioned paintings on the go. I often switch between different creative projects, some more playful and loose and others more detailed and considered.
Where can we find your work?
You can find my work via The Art Shop Vancouver, a local gallery showcasing emerging artists which has represented my work since 2020. My work is also up on benevely.com, along with some public art projects in the Vancouver area.
