Ben Benedict: Master Wood Carver
Raven carved from a single piece of black walnut.
Masters Class Carver -2019, Winner Advanced Division H Ward World Championship, Interpretive Wood Sculpture.
In the heart of Akwesasne, Canada, resides a master wood carver named whose artistic journey is as rich and intricate as the masterpieces he creates.
Meet Ben Benedict, a luminary in the world of wood carving whose story is marked by passion, resilience, and a string of world-class awards. Among these accolades are the Ward World Championships in Ocean City, MD, winning the Master Carver Award in the Advanced H Division in 2019, which has catapulted him into the global spotlight.
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Ben Benedict is a proud son of Akwesasne, a Cornwall Island wood carver carrying forward a family name synonymous with lacrosse greatness while forging his own path as a world-renowned woodcarver. On the floor, he starred from Junior B through Masters and co-founded the Akwesasne Minor Lacrosse Organization, helping nurture the next generation of players.
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Off the floor, Benedict discovered his second passion early in life, surrounded by artisans who inspired his creativity. That fascination with wood grew into mastery. Today, he is recognized internationally as one of the finest duck and bird carvers, blending Haudenosaunee tradition, patience, and artistry into every piece.
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As a member of the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation, Benedict proudly draws inspiration from his heritage with Akwesasne Indigenous Art, infusing each creation with the spirit and traditions of his people. However, while a source of pride, his heritage does not play a defining role in influencing his carving style. Instead, he allows the wood to speak to him, guiding the creation process and giving life to each unique piece.
Awards & Achievements:
Ben's career is adorned with prestigious awards, placing him in the league of world-class wood carvers. Notable victories include Best of Show in Montreal (2003), Ottawa (2006), and a first-place win at the Canadian National Championships (2007). His masterpiece, "Raptor Vision," secured the Best of Show award at the 2010 Ward World Championships, establishing him as a luminary in the global woodcarving community. In 2022 he was inducted into the Cornwall Arts Hall of Fame and recognized for his Sculpture work.
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Global Recognition:
Ben Benedict's artistry has garnered international acclaim. His intricate wood carvings capture audiences worldwide. His creations transcend borders, earning him a well-deserved place among the finest artists in the field. The global recognition highlights the universal appeal of his work.
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Continued Excellence:
As a master wood carver, Ben Benedict is dedicated to continuous improvement and innovation. His commitment to excellence is evident in each meticulously crafted piece, ensuring that his artistry continues evolving and captivating audiences globally.
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Crafting Art from Roots:
Ben's journey as a wood carver is rooted in his early passion and continuous success in the competitive woodcarving world. His formative years around artisans and the creation of his first bird carving as a teen boy using scrap cedar serve as the foundation of his artistry. This initial creation, still cherished in his workshop, is a tangible testament to the beginning of a lifelong journey marked by dedication, skill, and a profound connection to wood carving.
2010 Ward World Championships, Wildfowl Carving Competition Entries
Raptor Vision - Winner,
Best in Show
Single Piece Carving
Red bay drift-wood
Single Piece Carving
Red bay drift-wood