Visual Art – Chicago

Ben Salus was born in South Chicago in 1979. He is a fourth generation south side Chicagoan. His family emigrated from Russia to escape the troubles and oppression of the Jewish people. Ben received his Bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the American Academy of Art in 2003. His curriculum focused on figure studies, color theory, masters painting techniques. He began organizing art events with other students while still in school. After graduation Ben taught art to Boys and Girls Club of Chicago students K-5 for 2 years. Ben currently teaches after school programs in South Chicago and figure drawing in Lincoln Park. His work has been displayed in cafes, record stores, art fairs, and galleries throughout Chicago, Israel and several cities in Europe. Pilsen was his first and primary showcase area. Later Wicker Park and Andersonville were the neighborhoods where he organized benefits working with artists, musicians and break dancers. Money was raised for HIV AIDS support groups, nonprofit social work, and families who suffered losses due to gang violence. Ben’s style can best be described as mixed media collage painting. He has been focusing on this technique for over a decade. His subject matter reflects his struggles, travels and family from his ancestors to his wife and two children.