The benMUSA Collection

I think for most people when they see a painting, they marvel at the beauty or perhaps even its complexity and composition. For me it’s about the process, breaking down each detail and each color. This method has developed my skills in abstract, mixed media, expressionist and surrealist painting styles. Due to my curiosity to experiment, my art collection has ranged in size from 3 inches to over 6 feet wide. For over 20 years, it has grown to include replications and functional art such as jewelry and night lights. Since coming to back to Chicago in 2024, I continue to expand my collection. It all began in Houston, which I called home for over 3 decades. A friend commissioned my first painting, so I began exploring my Mediterranean and North African heritage. I was dissatisfied with the available colors and paints. The lack of richness and depth began my research for alternative methods. I eventually adopted old world techniques from such admired Masters like Michelangelo and Da Vinci, but I decided to incorporate modern mediums. I mix acrylic gels with pigment powders, fabric pigments and sometimes high quality acrylic paint to create deeper and richer colors.