Benjamin Fredrickson, Artist

What does it take to be an art star in New York City?  That is precisely what Benjamin Fredrickson wants to know.  The Midwest born photographer marks his very first foray into live performance this winter at MAD.

Examining the reception of his body of photography work by certain NYC galleries, that he would “fit nicely into the cannon of Robert Mapplethorpe” being an HIV positive gay man who works in portrait photography, Benjamin Fredrickson weaves together an unforgettable night that challenges the professionalized artist tract, history of NYC photography, and preconceived notions of “the artist”.

Searingly personal, completely honest, and devastatingly humorous Fredrickson’s “Benjamin Fredrickson, Artist” reminds us of the risks and reward inherent in pursuing a life in the arts.