About Benjamin L. West | Benjamin L. West Artist

Welcome to the World of ben West

An Emmy Award-winning photojournalist and a pioneering Native American digital 2D & 3D artist. Raised in Oklahoma, Benjamin L. West was deeply influenced by the strong Southern Cheyenne traditions imparted by his father and his proud membership in the Otoe-Missouria Tribe on his mother’s side. From a young age, he was inspired to preserve and celebrate the rich culture of his people through his art, ensuring their stories and traditions continue to thrive for future generations.

Benjamin L. West’s journey into the realm of art began in 2005, marking the start of a proactive career that would soon blend traditional storytelling with cutting-edge digital mediums. His work transcends the conventional boundaries of Native American art, incorporating photography, digital imagery, and even video to narrate the present-day experiences and resilience of Native American communities.At the heart of his mission is a commitment to addressing the critical issues facing the Indian Country.

Goals and Accomplishments

In 2020 in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, Benjamin L. West founded The Arkeketa Project as a testament to his dedication to combatting the disproportionate effects of the virus on Native American communities. Through his lens, he captures moments of beauty, struggle, and triumph, offering a contemporary perspective that challenges outdated perceptions and celebrates the vibrant, ongoing legacy of Native American life.

Whether documenting the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, embedding within Gaddafi's regime in Libya, or bringing attention to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women crisis through the "Why We Wear Red" series, Benjamin L. West’s work is both a call to action and a profound expression of art. His pieces, including the notable "Standing Bear" digital art print, now reside in prestigious museum collections, serving as a bridge between cultures and generations.

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Redefining Native American Art through Photography and Digital Imagery

"Missing" A Convergence of Art and Heritage

"Missing" stands out as a pinnacle of Benjamin's artistry, meriting the accolade of Best of Drawing/Graphic Art/Photography at the 2023 Mvskoke Art Market. This piece is not just an artistic triumph but a powerful narrative tool, weaving together the threads of Benjamin L. West’s lineage with contemporary artistic expression. It is a poignant representation of the ongoing story of Native Americans, capturing the essence of loss, hope, and resilience with a focus on MMIW - Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.

Benjamin L. West's "Missing" is more than a piece of art; it's a statement, a reflection of his dedication to bringing indigenous narratives to the forefront through compelling visual language. It's a work that invites viewers to delve into the depths of Native American experiences, mirrored through the lens of a modern-day visionary.

Distinctive Achievements in Artistry

Award-Winning Creations by Benjamin L. West

Benjamin L. West has made significant strides in the realms of digital artistry, graphic art, and photography. His exceptional talent is exemplified in his acclaimed work, "Missing," a piece that resonates deeply with his cultural roots and artistic prowess.His work is on display or part of the permanent collection at numerous museums around the country.