Benjamin: Sculpting the Surreal
Benjamin: Sculpting the Surreal
In the heart of Acarigua-Araure, Venezuela, lives a legendary artist and wisdom keeper — Benjamin Arenas. For over 40 years, Benjamin has explored the edges of surrealism, painting vivid dreamscapes, carving intricate wooden forms, and ultimately fusing the two into hauntingly beautiful surrealist faces on wood.
In this intimate short film by José Ángel Corona Pérez, we step into Benjamin’s world — not just to witness the evolution of an artist, but to listen to the reflections of an elder whose life has been shaped by imagination, resilience, and deep cultural roots.
Film Maker
José Angel Corona
Venezuela
José Ángel Corona is a Venezuelan filmmaker who has worked as an editor, assistant director, and cinematographer on a range of film and entertainment projects in his country, some of which have been recognized at international film festivals.
As a director, he explores documentary as a way to find his own voice through the stories of his subjects. He currently teaches cinematography and editing at the university level. With his camera, he continues to explore the world around him in search of stories to tell.
Film Master
Benjamin Arenas
- Craft
- Surrealist
- Country
- Venezuela
Benjamín Arenas was born in Araure, Venezuela, in 1965. A self-taught visual artist and artisan, he has explored surrealism since childhood, developing a unique style that fuses geometry, symbolism, and handcrafted techniques.
Over the years, his work has been featured in numerous exhibitions and cultural events, earning recognition and awards for its originality and expressive power. His pieces — playful, introspective, and spiritually charged — reflect both technical mastery and personal identity.
Benjamín continues to create meaningful artworks and artisanal objects, and is recognized as one of the most respected and established artists in his region. In honor of his legacy, a permanent exhibition space bears his name at the Casa de la Cultura Carlos Gauna, in Acarigua-Araure.