Benay Sotelo Artist Bio

My first formal art training came through an adult drawing class at a local community center. I was instantly hooked, and drawing with graphite quickly became my happy place—a way to refocus and recharge. After taking a ten-year break, I returned to the sketchbook and even attended SketchCon in Pasadena in 2018. Since then, I’ve expanded my practice to include watercolor, gouache, and, more recently, water mixable oils. I continue my art education taking in person workshops and constantly learning from the ever convenient YouTube videos. 

I’m proud to display the ribbons my work has earned from The Eagle Plein Air Festival, the Western Idaho Fair, and the Plein Air Painters of Idaho. I’ve also sold a few paintings, but more than anything, I paint for the joy it brings me. Along the way, I’ve made lasting friendships through our PAPI community. Serving as the organization’s vice president has been both a privilege and a rewarding way to deepen those connections while continuing to grow as an artist.