Dusty Benedict has pursued a lifelong passion for art - engaging his creative spirit in whatever was in front of him and eagerly transforming it into his art. From early years in the ocean surfing, an artist  mother, Navy experience aboard a submarine, and life long travel, Dusty has observed the world around him and created new forms. It was just something he did - the need to engage, explore and create. 

With a passion to learn more he was accepted to Art Center College of Design in LosAngeles and student painting and drawing where he received both his BFA and MFA in 1976. 

A study of Arthur Dove has led Dusty to a form of abstraction that starts in the natural world. Through the process of drawing and painting he discovers new relationships in shape, color and space. This leads to an image that is grounded in nature but often altered beyond the representation of recognizable objects. 

Dusty has exhibited nationally from Hawaii to North Carolina. In 2011, Dusty was honored with a 50 year retrospective show in the Elizabeth Holden Gallery at Warren Wilson College. He retired from teaching in the Art Department at the college, after 33 years. 

He lives and maintains a studio in Swannanoa with his wife, Nancy. They have two grown children.