Gorman Bentley
Gorman Bentley is a distinguished visual artist whose work resonates with the landscapes of his youth and his deep connection to the natural world. Raised in rural North Dakota during the 1950s, Bentley spent countless hours observing the expansive prairies, absorbing the nuanced colors, textures, and forms of the seasons. This early experience with the vast, bleak terrains profoundly influenced his later work as an artist, where he now captures the emotional depth of these landscapes on canvas. His art is often described as “intuitive” and invites viewers into a journey of self-discovery, through layers of abstraction and contemplative forms.
Bentley holds a B.S. Ed. from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and an M.A. Ed. from California State University, Los Angeles. His commitment to art education has been further enriched through specialized programs at the J. Paul Getty Center in Los Angeles and advanced art history coursework at Pomona College, Claremont. From 2020 to 2022, he honed his painting technique under the mentorship of Natalia Aandewiel, deepening his practice.
Bentley’s work has been exhibited in numerous prestigious galleries across California, including the J. Paul Getty Center and the Sasse Museum of Art. His solo exhibitions in venues like the Chaffey Community Museum of Art and the Paul Revere Williams Gallery have garnered widespread recognition, while his residency at Casa 425 Hotel and Lounge further underscores his contributions to the Claremont art scene.
In addition to his exhibitions, Bentley is known for his thoughtful exploration of identity, frequently incorporating his queer perspective into his work. His paintings are a testament to his ability to evoke both the external beauty of nature and the internal landscapes of the self. Bentley continues to push the boundaries of contemporary abstract art, blending his background in psychology and color theory to create powerful, emotionally charged works.
Gorman Bentley’s work is an excellent acquisition for art collectors seeking to invest in emotionally rich and visually captivating contemporary art. His distinctive use of color and texture, combined with his ability to evoke introspection, makes each piece both timeless and deeply personal. Collectors who appreciate abstract art with a strong narrative will find Bentley’s layered compositions a valuable addition to their collections. His growing list of exhibitions and increasing recognition across notable galleries in California further solidify his work as an important and compelling choice for those looking to expand their collection with art that will continue to inspire and resonate.