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About Benjamin Knox



Biography: Benjamin Knox
Benjamin Knox is a renowned American artist, architect, and entrepreneur best known for his evocative paintings of university campuses, particularly his alma mater, Texas A&M University (Texas A&M). He is celebrated for his unique artistic style, entrepreneurial success, and profound dedication to philanthropic causes.

Early Life and Artistic Development
Born in Lubbock, Texas, in 1968, Knox grew up on a ranch and cultivated a passion for art and history from an early age, selling his first artwork at age six. He attended Texas A&M University, where he graduated from the College of Architecture in 1990 and was a member of the Corps of Cadets (Class of 1990).

Facing financial hardship during college, Knox launched his professional art career from his dorm room, selling his first collegiate artwork to fellow cadets. This experience instilled in him a rugged entrepreneurial spirit and a lifelong commitment to giving back. His artwork often employs a representational style rooted in the techniques of historical masters and a distinct collage style that visually interweaves the history, architecture, and traditions of his subjects.

Major Accomplishments and Milestones
Knox’s career spans over three decades and includes significant artistic, architectural, and philanthropic achievements:

  • Artistic Commissions and Honors
    Official Artist for the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum (1997): This pivotal commission brought his work to national prominence.
  • Official State of Texas Gift: Commissioned by Governor Rick Perry and Secretary of State Geoffrey Connor to create a painting of the Texas State Capitol, which served as the state's official gift.
  • Official License Plate Designer (2003): Commissioned by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and The Alamo to design the Native Texan license plate.
  • Texas A&M 125th Anniversary Painting (2001): Created "The Aggie Timeline," a piece whose sales led to the establishment of a $125,000 President's Endowed Scholarship fund.
  • Kyle Field "Great Moments" Series (2014): Created eight large oil paintings depicting historical Texas A&M football events, unveiled during the stadium's renovation.
  • "The Ride Home" Mural (2022): A commemorative 16-foot oil painting for the Bush School of Government & Public Service, honoring the final train ride of President George H.W. Bush.
  • "Defenders of Freedom" Series (2021): Paintings for the Don & Ellie Knauss Veteran Resource & Support Center at Texas A&M, commemorating veterans from each military branch.
  • Hotel Commission (2017): Created all 677 art pieces for the Embassy Suites by Hilton College Station, a regionally themed collection of original paintings and reproductions.
  • Baylor Scott and White Hospital (2014): Commissioned a giant oil painting for the main lobby entitled "Medicine in the Brazos Valley."
  • Silver Taps Painting (2002): Commissioned to create a painting and prints perpetually given to the families of fallen Aggies through the Silver Taps Remembrance Program.
  • Award Winner: Winner of the Artist of the Year award by The Arts Council Celebrate the Arts in 2019.

Entrepreneurship and Architectural Design
The Benjamin Knox Gallery & Art Center (Opened 1993): He opened his first gallery at age 23, making it the first artist-owned gallery in the Bryan-College Station area.

College Station Train Depot Replica (Designed and Opened 2001): He designed and developed the new gallery facility, which features an exact replica of the historic College Station train depot, the namesake of the town.

Architectural Projects: His design work includes residential projects, such as the Thomas Park House and the Pebble Creek House.

Philanthropy and Academia
Massive Charitable Donations: Through his artwork and gallery initiatives, he has generated over $3.5 million in charitable and scholarship donations for various national organizations.

Scholarship Endowment: He has repeatedly endowed the very scholarships he once received, establishing perpetual funds for future students.

Professor of Art and Design: He has served as a professor of art and design at Texas A&M University in the Department of Visualization in the College of Architecture.

Published Author: Published the art book "Visions of Aggieland" (2010), featuring a foreword by President George H.W. Bush and an introduction by Texas Governor Rick Perry.

Knox's work is housed in the homes and buildings of thousands of collectors, including prominent universities, heads of state, and museums, solidifying his legacy as an artist who captures and promotes American heritage and spirit.