OCALA, FL (352today.com) – It’s a dream realized, Ocala artist Seth Benzel will be having a one-man show that will open Aug. 30 at the Appleton Museum of Art and will be on display through Jan. 4, 2026.
His exhibition entitled Deconstructing Self will provide the viewer with an intimate look at his evolution as an artist. On Sept. 6 at 11 a.m. and again at 2 p.m., Benzel will be giving a talk in the museum’s forum, and after that will lead a tour through his exhibit.
Benzel started painting when he was four years old. His father John Benzel played a large role in his early development.
His earliest memories are of his father painting. A former multiple stakes winning thoroughbred trainer, Benzel grew up around horses and art, and that was basically his life. He has enjoyed success in both thoroughbred racing and the art world, a rare feat being able to excel in two different and extremely competitive disciplines.
“My profession has changed, and my direction has changed, but those two influences were very strong and something that I enjoyed without forcing it, they both came very naturally, and art has taken over in a way I could’ve never seen,” said Benzel. ‘The thing about art that’s really amazing is that it’s the type of thing that keeps building on itself. You’re investing every day in it. You’re making more paintings you’re talking with more people. It’s a very kind of healthy growth.”
It’s Benzel’s approach to life that sets him apart, a consistency that drives his inner spirit, with action as simple as going through the motions, he’s able to make amazing things happen.
“In teaching in the last five years, since COVID has been a gift,” said Benzel. “Working with different people and trying to lead them in a way that’s both encouraging and inclusive, has become another part of the story. I’m very thankful to be where I am right now, to have this space to have 8th Ave. Gallery, a place to do what I like to do. It’s fantastic. It’s come full circle after leaving for a while and feeling very comfortable being back here.”
Early influences of Benzel besides his father include Wassily Kandinsky, Arshile Gorky and Robert Diebenkorn.
“The abstract expressionists were the first ones from another time that really influenced me quite heavily,” said Benzel. “I’ve always felt like I lived in the wrong time. I wish I would’ve been a part of that early movement, and part of that time where everything was just budding.”
Benzel has had a different kind of path than most artists, being that he’s now 50 years old, reaching a certain stage in his life, and to get the type of exposure that he’s now enjoying has been deeply satisfying, and he’s grateful for the many opportunities and experiences that have shaped him on his journey.
“I think we’re very fortunate to be a part of Ocala and to be part of the rise of many things in the area, including the bedrock and cornerstone of art here in terms of the Appleton Museum,” said Benzel. “For me personally, it’s a huge milestone to be asked to exhibit in a museum such as the Appleton. It makes it to where the work, the hours, the attention and everything feels gratifying, and it’s a moment you really appreciate. We’re always striving to do more. Art will lead me where it will. I’m just grateful to do it every day.”
