Born in New Orleans, Robert Benjamin Stiles (Benji Stiles) is an interdisciplinary artist and educator who lives and works in Houston’s historic 1^st Ward Arts district.  He holds a B.A. from the University of St. Thomas, with a major in Art History and minor in Studio Arts. Benji began his career in the visual arts as a fine art printer and first assistant for commercial photographer Terry Vine before transitioning to arts education in 2006.  He has taught at the: Glassell School of Art, High School for Performing and Visual Arts, Pearland High School, and is currently the head of the International Baccalaureate Visual Arts Program at Lamar High School.  Since January 2018 Benji has established a successful art practice at Hardy and Nance studios showing his work throughout the region.  His work ranges from non-representational painting using a diversity of marks and contemporary color theory to conceptual assemblage using historical relics.  Find Benjamin’s work on Instagram @benjistilesart.