Business of Art Scholarship

Each year, in partnership with the San Diego Visual Arts Network, we award one emerging artist a scholarship called “The Business of Art Scholarship.”
Congratulations to our 2024 recipient, Ben Jay.


Ben Jay

Ben Jay is a spray can portrait artist who has lived in Pacific Beach, San Diego, for the better part of the last decade. Ben’s large-scale pieces come to life by combining his remarkable fine motor skills with wild color schemes and culturally-relevant subjects.

A creative visionary living with epilepsy, Ben’s art has evolved from being a bellwether for his own neurological healing, and grown into Blank Space Removal which, among other endeavors, provides portraiture plus artistic vision for local and nationwide agencies alike, such as the San Diego Epilepsy Foundation, the Bones Brigade Experience, and the George Floyd Memorial Center. 

When he doesn’t have a can of spray-paint in his hands, you can find Ben skating and juggling simultaneously along the boardwalk in Pacific Beach.

Make sure to visit Ben’s booth at the upcoming Mission Fed ArtWalk! He will be near the intersection of India Street and Cedar Street.

Business of Art Scholarship

Business of Art Scholarship Sponsors

ARTWALK SAN DIEGO

ArtWalk San Diego produces San Diego’s Original Fine Art Festivals that celebrate both visual and performing arts.

SAN DIEGO VISUAL ARTS NETWORK

San Diego Visual Arts Network (SDVAN) is a database of information produced to improve the clarity, accuracy and sophistication of discourse about San Diego’s artistic and cultural life and is dedicated to the idea that the Visual arts are a vital part of the health of our city. SDVAN provides a resource-rich website and facilitates countless opportunities for inspiration and collaboration on visual arts projects.