Artist Statement
Having worn glasses since the age of three, I have always viewed the world through lens. My interest in photography began with family albums. My photography is an extension of my curiosity about culture, humanity and how these entities dance along the social fault lines of history, conflict, social change, and rebellion. I seek the beauty that is hidden in these times of visual complexity.
I am a humanist documentary photographer…a visual storyteller. My creative process involves monochromatic interpretations of the intrinsic aspects of life. The streets are structural and functional palettes upon which lights, shadows, reflections, and colors blend to shape our perceptions, ideas, and beliefs.
My camera is an extension of my inner creative vision and imagination. I seek confirmation of my existence and that of the social beings which I share this sphere called Earth. The lens is a tool that can be an interpreter of beauty, social tensions, and conflict or weaponized to challenge and violate our personal spaces.
I walk in the paths created by the legendary creatives of the past and present, James VanDerZee, Gordon Parks, Deborah Willis, Dawoud Bey, and the current generation of creatives which include Devin Allen and other visual activist. Though three quarters of century I have lived, I have more images to capture and stories to tell. If my eyes open in the morning, I will continue to document this evolving and challenging thing we call life!
Ujamaa Studio
Ujamaa is a Swahili term for cooperative economics and familyhood. Ujamaa Studio’s mission is to support the work of historically disenfranchised artist. The studio promotes the work of its owner, photographer & archival framer Onaje Benjamin, and seeks partnerships and projects to promote individuals and organizations which support social justice and the arts.
Awards
· Leiani Claire Award for Outstanding Achievement in Photography, Woodstock Artists Association & Museum, 2022
· Grant Award-Creatives Build New York Guaranteed Income for Artist Program 2022-2023
Richard Edelman Award for Photography, Woodstock Artist Association and Museum, 2024