Ben Jeffery, born in 1986 in Barnet, North London, has nurtured a passion for art since childhood, inspired by his grandfather’s introduction to the works of John Varley, the famous 18th-century watercolour artist. The creative influence of the Varley family, to which he is related, sparked his early love for painting.

Ben's journey as an artist began during his secondary school years, where friendly competitions with classmates to draw the best portraits deepened his love for creating. His standout moment came when a portrait of his father, painted for a mock GCSE, earned admiration from his entire art class.

Although Ben went on to study art at both college and university levels, his technique remains largely self-taught. Throughout his education, he was often left to explore and develop his own ideas, receiving little formal instruction on techniques. This gave him the freedom to experiment and refine his oil painting skills, despite occasionally receiving mixed feedback from his tutors. His bold use of colour and meticulous detail quickly impressed his peers, and through trial and error, he developed the methods that define his distinctive style today.

Ben’s creative process is spontaneous and organic. He usually starts with a basic composition but lets the painting evolve as he works, often choosing colours on the spot and allowing the brush to guide the forms. His process involves two stages: first, laying down base colours, and then adding intricate details with a second layer. After completing a piece, he takes a step back for a day or two to review it with fresh eyes, making any final adjustments as needed.

Known for his versatility, Ben’s work ranges from portraits to landscapes, created in both pencil and oil paints. He gravitates toward vibrant, bold colours, giving his paintings a modern and unique aesthetic. A lifelong fan of sci-fi films and special effects, Ben once aspired to be a concept artist for movies and video games. While he briefly explored digital painting, he ultimately returned to oils, drawn by their rich texture and depth. Today, Ben finds much of his inspiration from the stunning views surrounding his parents' homes in the Herefordshire countryside and the Isle of Harris, fuelling his ever-evolving creative vision.