PASSION AND PURPOSE
Andy Benavides (b.1965) has dedicated his
life to the study of creativity and its relevance in our
world. As an active contemporary artist, he explores
his mediums with a commitment to creating connection.
He believes creativity is for everybody and should be
exercised intentionally as an essential part of our development.
"I have never been interested in a style."
Andy Benavides
About Andy Benavides
Andy Benavides has never been content to remain within a single area of self-expression. He challenges himself by responding emotionally to the subject at hand. He paints, sculpts, assembles, invents, designs, envisions, teaches, builds community, and ultimately connects people.
He is also guilty of not regularly documenting his work.
"My creativity has allowed me to explore my careers."
Design Consulting
Andy Benavides is often contracted to think outside the box. His ability to interpret his clients’ needs in the area of aesthetics is strengthened by his deep passion for creativity.
Public Art
Andy Benavides sees public art as a powerful way to make creativity accessible to everyone. Whether collaborating with architects or project-managing for community artists, his experience and vision consistently prevail.
Community Building
Andy Benavides has shifted the trajectory of his work to consider people as his medium. Through cultural events and community engagement, he works to unite and inspire connection. Over the past 20 years, he has helped foster Southtown culture — a three-square-mile district home to more than 35,000 residents and two major art walks that have become the city’s primary anchors for connecting the arts.
Creativity as essential smartsa.org
Andy Benavides and his wife, Yvette Benavides, have spent the past 21 years teaching primary school children between the ages of 3 and 10. Andy believes that creative exercise should serve as the foundation of every student’s learning experience. Together, their mission is to nurture mental health through creativity and self-expression.
To date, they have taught more than 10,000 students, developing both a curriculum and a creative methodology known as the “Vitamin C’s” — an approach centered on cultivating curiosity, creativity, and connection through creative excersise.
Contemporary Artist
Andy Benavides has allowed his instinctual nature to guide his curious approach to life and all that he has experienced. Never preoccupied with tangible outcomes, he is far more invested in the process and discovery along the way. He explores his ideas with heartfelt emotion and a passion for what is often indescribable.
Andy works to live — not to sell, nor to be distracted by notions of collectability. He creates because he feels compelled to celebrate the profound place life has brought him to, embracing creativity as both purpose and way of being.
Art Handling
Andy Benavides and his team have served the art community in San Antonio as trusted local, national, and international art handlers. Preservation and service are central to Andy and Yvette Benavides’ mission. Andy believes that every item handled in their shop should be preserved to live in its environment for generations to come.
Art Incubator 1906.studio
In 1998 Benavides purchased a building located at 1906 S. Flores. Over the next 30 years The 1906 became a hub for creativity evolving into the 1906 Studio. Now an anchor for the arts in San Antonio, it serves as a safe place for artists practicing and pursuing their passions. Twenty two artists create under the roof of the 1906 and are an example of community and what a healthy eco-system for creators can look like. These artists are assets to the area and together they spread their empathy for humanity.
SECOND SATURDAY ARTWALK
Thirty years ago, Benavides founded the Second Saturday Artwalk, an event that continues to serve as a creative connector within the community. His nonprofit, S.M.A.R.T., operates the educational gallery and partners with 11 additional artist-managed galleries. Together, they welcome an average of 300 visitors each month.
The BLACKBOX STUDIO is home to the BLACKBOX QUINTET and is the newest venue dedicated to live performances centered on jazz standards. This student-organized ensemble represents the jazz program at Texas State University. They play every SECOND SATURDAY!
"If you're wondering how I can do all of the above? I'll end where I started, passion and purpose, let's connect!"
CONTACT
Connection