‘And Then’ to Host Art Show For Eleanor Lee Benbenek

And Then’s mission of helping young adults with learning challenges find their meaningful purpose in life is doing just that this coming month on June 19.

And Then is proud to host the very first art show for our amazing student, Eleanor Lee Benbenek. Eleanor Lee “Ellie” Benbenek is a young woman whose art mirrors her own complexity. She is autistic, epileptic, and bipolar, but that is not what defines her.

Through vivid colors, distinct lines, and abstract faces, Eleanor illustrates her understanding of others and of herself. Challenged with feeling misunderstood, art became a form of communication for her. She’s not just painting faces, she’s painting her friends, her circle of comfort. Each face portrays a unique expression and personality, offering a glimpse into a world where imagination and personal emotion are intertwined. Much like her paintings, Eleanor exhibits passion, empathy, wisdom, spirit, and mystery.

At And Then, we believe everyone has a purpose and can contribute to our community. For Eleanor, it’s being a voice and providing insight into a world unlike any most of us have seen before. Using her talent with art, Eleanor takes you on a captivating journey through what it’s like living in a world that isn’t bound by traditional rules or viewpoints. There’s much to learn from her imagination and interpretation of human beings. This understanding will not only allow you to know the wonderful woman Eleanor is but will also lay a foundation for thought provoking conversations about how our differences in interpretation can all be beautiful and meaningful.

This evening is sure to be full of pure magic. The event begins at 6 p.m. at Jack and Mary’s in Schulenburg and will also include Tommy Luke.

Alongside live music, there will be a cocktail hour featuring Majek Winery and Vineyard wine sponsored by And Then A New Day. Rise & Stein will also have drinks, including beer and wine available as well. Light appetizers will be served around 6 p.m. If you’re looking for something more, there is also an opportunity to preorder hand rolled sushi. Quantities of sushi will be limited, so be sure to get your order in as soon as possible by contacting us at howdy@jackandmarys.com

Eleanor’s artwork will be available for purchase in a variety of mediums, including canvases, stationery cards, stickers, and more. Stay updated on more information by following us on Facebook and Instagram at andthenanewday or at jackandmarystheburg.