
Christy Bensley

Christy Bensley - Fine Artist, Painter and Teacher
Painting has been a lifelong passion. As a keen observer of my surroundings, I marvel at the nuances of natural light and color interacting in landscapes, shapes, and objects in daily life. This interplay greatly influences my artwork to evoke a mood, a sense of mystery, or a hint of discovery. It's these captivating scenes that inspire me to paint, as well as to choose specific techniques of brushwork, a palette knife or a combination of both.
I graduated from Connecticut College in 1981 with a major in Art History and a minor in Studio Art. It was during this time that I further honed my interest in the visual arts. After graduation, I worked for D.C. Heath & Co., an educational publisher, as a secondary textbook designer. My art background in composition, color, photography, and design significantly influenced my artwork as a painter.
In my spare time, I have pursued painting, by taking various art classes, primarily in oils, with talented artists. I actively participate in art auctions and exhibitions and have received numerous commissions for portraits of children, adults, and animals. I showcase my work at the Squam Lakes Artisans Gallery in Center Harbor NH, Sandwich Home Industries Fine Art Gallery, and Helen Thomas Simply Smashing in Andover, MA.
I am fortunate to have traveled to many destinations, including some exotic, where I photograph scenes that contribute to my growth as a painter. Recently retired as a special education teacher, painting and travel will continue to take hold. However, I always find myself returning to Squam Lake, which has captured my attention throughout my life. My family now enjoys the beauty of this region from our farmhouse in Sandwich, NH.
For more information, please visit my website at paletteanddesign.com.
