Ben Avant was born in Alpine, Texas in 1959.  He received his first lesson in oil painting at the age of five from longtime artist Peg Theophilus.

Oil painting has since been his greatest artistic fascination.  Mr. Avant is also accomplished in the art of all drawing types including pastel and pencil.  His major influences have been the old masters, the surrealists and impressionists as well.  The artist believes that the key to finding his own identity lies in invention rather than imitation.

His artistic discipline involves working with live models for at least ten hours each week and dedicate the rest of his time to Plein air painting, Homeric painting, and refining pictorial contents.  He teaches oil painting at the Art Junction of El Paso.  Mr. Avant's work has been featured in juried shows in different areas of the United States and has won top awards locally.

Mr. Avant can be reached by e-mail at: AvantDesign95@aol.com or by phone at 915.543.6007 or 915.422.9992.