Ben Eng is a freelance photographer based full-time out of Telluride, CO since 2011 (part-time since 2004). As a graduate of Fort Lewis in nearby Durango with no formal photography training, Ben found his way in life through his camera and a passion for being on snow. Being a product of 90’s snowboarding and skateboarding has influenced the content of Ben’s art as well as the aesthetic. He says, “the intent of this collection is to simply show some of the local pros getting after it in our own backyard.”
IF YOU COULD HAVE A CONVERSATION WITH ONE ARTIST, ALIVE OR DECEASED, WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
Frank Kozik immediately comes to mind since he passed away the other day.
Which artistic media inspires you most?
Illustration and painting. Obviously I have seen a lot of photography in my life that fascinates me, but something about a person being able to conjure up what is in their brain with nothing but a pencil is pretty mind boggling. The more subversive and sardonic, the better; for that reason I have a thing for alot of the artists that were/are intertwined in the skateboarding and music worlds, particularly the ones who emerged in the 80's through mid 90's.
What is your favorite awkward growth moment or barrier-breaking time?
One time in the late 90's while skating, my friend Roger Seliner showed up at the skatepark in some flamboyant manner that I can't recall, but when I said to him something along the lines of "I don't get you," he responded "that's because you're a photographer, not an artist." That was a real punch in the face from an actual artist. So I started trying to understand him. It's been a lifetime project...
What inspires you and/or keeps you engaged and moving forward?
The threat of homelessness. Just kidding (kind of). Snowboarding (and the lifestyle/people) inspires me. Being out in the mountains with those that do it well inspires me to suffer the extra weight in my pack. Generally speaking, almost no one who makes a living as a photographer is an expert on photography, but more an expert on their subject. Would marine wildlife photographer Paul Nicklen have had the career he has if wasn't an actual marine biologist? Probably not.
Tell us about your upcoming events, new releases, or anticipated projects.
I currently have a snowboard/ski show at the Telluride Arts HQ Gallery West through the end of May 2023. Currently nothing concrete beyond that, just unsolidified ideas rattling around in my head.