Benjamin Allen Ellis, Ben Phoenix, Tortuga, PHNX.
An artist of many names working in numerous colors, shades and mediums. Having lived and learned throughout the United States and South America, this site is a growing, changing kaleidoscope of Benjamin’s work. From fashion design to painting, stenciling to graphic design, his work is presented here, some of it even for sale. His blog is a current update of the latest projects, adventures and life lessons he is grateful to share.
Ben was born and raised in Alaska, into a family of bush pilots, big game guides and firemen. His first show was June of 2000, at Anchorage favourite Snow City Cafe. Since then he has presented his work in over 15 solo shows and 10 group outings. He created the AK Fashion Outing, the first show of its kind in Alaska, which ran for two years. He was also the creator, editor and artistic director of Bag Lunch, an online ‘zine connecting the dots of the Alaska cultural scene with the rest of the world. In addition to his work as an artist, he has spent time as a dj, freestyle performer, dancer, artistic director and nationally certified yoga instructor and personal trainer.
His mentors include Lynne Minton, Arthur Johnsen and James Wilcox.
The upcoming Renegade Art Show (the 2nd) is the latest in a series of events he has curated and directed. Benjamin is passionate about community and believes in the power in numbers: what a group of people with focused vision can do is a continued source of amazement for him.
The month of November finds him presenting a show of collaborative work with Katie Blake, a fellow artist he highly respects, at Sub-Zero Lounge in downtown Anchorage.
He currently spends his time between Alaska and Colombia, South America.
