BEN WAKELING
Ben Wakeling (b.1985) is a British artist who has created a gestural vocabulary that is genuinely universal and goes beyond words. His abstract figurative drawings and paintings depict powerful charcoal lines freely-scribbled with bold colors infused with energy, an extension of the artist’s feelings. The brain-to-hand emotional quality of his work makes it so captivating and allows so many to tap into their own emotions. His work is vulnerable and authentic.
He is a guest lecturer for ‘Arts in Health’ at psychology dept at UWE and a founder of Outsider Gallery and Hackney Wick Life Drawing. He is currently delivering an Expressive Arts and Wellbeing programme for the NHS MHT North London Forensic Service.
RADIO JUXTAPOSE INTERVIEW
On the occasion of his newest solo show, Abstract Figurativism: Loving Fiercely, Doug Gillen from Radio Juxtapoz sat down with Ben Wakeling for a special conversation about art, healing, community, loss, grief and love.
As the Artist in Residence of the North London Trust NHS Arts Programme that he helped found, Wakeling collaborates with patients experiencing episodes of mania or psychosis. The beauty of the works lies in both the sublime brushstokes and the channeling of energy, creating something fresh and introspective for abstract painting.
To listen to the full interview on Radio Juxtapose, please click link below.