We recently had the chance to connect with Naomi Benson and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Naomi, 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: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
I lose track of time whenever I’m working with my hands — whether it’s a simple, mindless task like cleaning or something creative like painting or drawing. When I’m creating or gathering materials for my work, I slip into my own world, where my conscious and subconscious meet. It’s a place of calm and safety, my happy place, where the noise and threats of the outside world fade away.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Naomi Benson, an artist and designer based in Seattle. My work blends fine art, sustainability, and material exploration — I love transforming recycled and found materials into something expressive and unexpected. In addition to my studio work, I do graphic design for small businesses and participate in art walks and exhibitions across Seattle. My creative process is guided by curiosity, texture, and a deep appreciation for nature.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
When I scored my first goal playing soccer in elementary school.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has taught me far more about success than success itself ever could. Every setback holds the formula for growth — each mistake, a lesson in resilience and self-understanding. Without suffering, there would be no real sense of accomplishment, and joy wouldn’t carry the same depth or meaning.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
When I was younger, I naively believed that being an artist meant living an easy, carefree life — just making beautiful things and enjoying the process. I’ve since learned it’s quite different. Being an artist means wearing many hats: creator, promoter, accountant, secretary, PR manager, event coordinator, and more. It’s a demanding and deeply involved career, but it’s also one I truly love and wouldn’t trade for anything.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m lucky to say that I’m doing what I was born to do. Creating art feels as natural as breathing — it’s something I’d do even if no one ever saw or purchased a single piece. The act of creating itself brings me joy and a sense of wholeness that nothing else really can. Art makes me feel complete.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gnomegrownart.com
- Instagram: @gnomegrownart
Image Credits
Evan Porteous
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
