We’re looking forward to introducing you to Benji Paysnoe. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Benji, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I am walking a path I set up a decade ago – but am never afraid to wander off the road and start paving a new way forward! A foundational aspect to art is the expression of self – a manifestation of our deepest thoughts and feelings through sound, visuals, physical, and mental experiences. But a core concept of self is that, while we hold true to our core elements, we are always changing. Never be afraid to say yes to an open door, or step into an opportunity that’s new to you! I’m always finding new ways to express my creativity and share it with the public because I am always looking for new ways to connect with others through my art.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Benji Paysnoe, and I am an artist who specializes in tactile sculpture and immersive experiences! I work with zoos, museums, aquariums, and anyone else who wants to create environments that connect people through interactive elements. My primary interest is paleoart, or interpreting scientific data through art to engage the public with active research in the field of paleontology. Not everyone can read a paper, but everyone can experience a piece of art!
I started at 17 years old volunteering in my local museum, where I was able to make connections with my local scientific community. From there, I have worked for over a decade to build public spaces that excite people about the work being done behind the scenes of our favorite spaces. I have been able to start up my own company, Camben Creatives LLC, which now focuses on using traditional and modern techniques to create unique experiences that allow people to really immerse themselves into their learning.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I remember my first trip to the zoo, and to the museum! I’ve always had a fascination with the natural world, and being able to experience it firsthand through both science and physical connection is what drives me to create experiences for others today. Knowing that you can create artwork in more ways than just paint on a canvas was mindblowing, and caused me to push myself to develop the skills to do it!
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
I remember my friend and mentor, Tim Walters. I worked with him when my career was just beginning, and he was providing opportunities for the next generation of creatives to step in. Every person has a dream to do something big, and not many people get the opportunity to show they can make it happen! Tim is one of those people who always worked to make sure everyone got that chance. With his support, I was able to create an entire immersive gallery, where he listened to my ideas and input while giving me the guidance and tools to make it reality. That trust and that willingness to listen to the next generation is what allowed me to create my dream today, and I will always be thankful for it.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
A belief that drives my core is that physical experience is what creates and maintains our community. In an age where so many of us have built foundations in the digital space, it’s important we still go out and experience what’s directly in front of us. I am always in wonder at how much our world is brought together online. We have more room than ever before to create connections, learn from each other, and build lasting memories. However, We also find ourselves lonlier than ever too. We are often glued to a screen, and feel a longing to share space with these fateful connections in our home. I believe through creating environments that focus on that 3rd space interaction, we can take those connections online and achieve that physical presence of community through shared learning and experiences.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Everything! Creating my dream has been a game of patience. You can be born with raw talent, but there is a greater wisdom and skill that comes with taking our time. Being an artist for a living isn’t about having one good project. It’s about developing connections to your community and greater public. Art is a shared experience that unites us, and we can only ever take it to where thousands of people see it through teamwork. Every social event, every little painting and model, every moment of shared excitement is what allows you to create a studio that will support you. Take your time, smell the roses and make friends while doing so! Public projects take years, even decades to plan out – so don’t feel like you have to rush them into place!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cambencreatives.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benj_art_min/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-paysnoe-camben-creatives/
- Twitter: https://x.com/CambenCreatives
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566014484904
- Other: https://bsky.app/profile/cambencreatives.bsky.social
Image Credits
All photos are personal photos taken by Benji Paysnoe
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
