Acclaimed for her captivating country landscapes, Milbie Benge's work has been called "romantic realism" as her ability to softly convey the beauty of nature evokes a true sense of place. Having studied under such notable artists as A.D. Greer and Dalhart Winberg, Benge's work reveals her interest and ease in the natural world. From the mirrored surface of a river at sunrise to leafy country lanes and fields sparkling with wildflowers, Benge's paintings capture a single serene moment in time, evoking the peaceful pace of the outdoors.
Her wide and accurate knowledge of the rural countryside, especially in Texas, Colorado, Arizona and her native California, gives her an unusual sweep of view. Most noted for her signature "halos of light," Benge's talent for depicting the effects of sunlight and moonlight speak of a subtle sense of mystery. Her atmospheres are often laden with mist, giving a sense of the refreshing quality of early spring-that seasonal touch that is always present in her landscapes.
The daughter of a Baptist minister, Benge became fascinated with drawing at a young age. Her artistic development was eagerly encouraged by her father and several high school art teachers.
Born in a migratory camp hospital near Sacramento, California, Benge became very familiar with rural scenes as she traveled from town to town in California and Texas because of her father's missionary work. As a young adult, her passion for the rural landscape continued to grow. She traveled extensively throughout the U.S., Europe and the Far East, studying and painting country landscapes-from English cottages and rose gardens to weathered Kentucky barns and ancient fence posts.
