My name is April Benson.  I have a BFA from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. In college, my faith was not a driving force behind my art.  I wasn’t glorifying God or honoring my peers by assuming they would mock my belief because theirs were different.  Assuming friction rather than respectful conversation, I kept faith out of my art.  After college, I worked full time as an administrative assistant, and only produce a few paintings a year.  I spent the years not painting, and struggling to put God first. In January of 2021 I felt compelled to start painting with intent and vigor.  I have produced more paintings in 2 years than in the past 10 years combined.  I really enjoy the control, rich look and silky feel of oils.  Oils allow me to paint and still be a mommy.  When you have a 4-year-old that wants to snuggle you or a 2-year-old that wants held while you are in the middle of painting (or if they want to show you their “big bellies” because they shoved basketballs down their shirts), you can put your brush down and not worry if the paint will dry and ruin your brush.  My faith strengthened from my husband’s influence and a strong church family inspired me to paint for God.  To honor Him with my work ethic and the paintings I produce.