Benjamin is a Tlingit carver and has been carving since he was 5 years old. His most influential mentors are his uncles Kenny Jackson and Jim Schoppert, teaching him both traditional formline and how to push those boundaries. He served as a cultural role model at the Alaska Native Heritage Center and participated in Tlingit training camps as a tradition bearer.
Most of his tools are handmade because traditional carvers did not have the opportunity to purchase them. It also allows him to stay connected to his heritage and further his knowledge of Native artistry before his time.
“Every piece that I create is a combination of my soul as an artist and the spirits of the medium that I am working with. I draw my inspiration by living my life as a Tlingit and experiencing my cultural background at every opportunity.”