Ben is currently undertaking a PhD in History and Philosophy of Art at the University of Kent. He previously studied a BA (Hons) in Art History and a Master’s in Film, both also at Kent. His PhD topic explores the queer male gaze and covert forms of queer painting and photography from the 1860s to 1930s. Initial research includes theory on the traditional male gaze in art history and how a homosexual male gaze might challenge that, as well as exploring the ‘visual code’ used in illustration, advertising, magazines, and film, during the twentieth century to create a secondary appeal to a homosexual audience. For the main part of the thesis, Ben is applying this knowledge to painting and photography to uncover the secondary readings which have been either overlooked or disregarded until now.
Ben’s research interests are situated within modern and contemporary art, and the history of photography. Further study interests include abstract and monochrome painting, film theory, French cinema, fashion photography, plus Art Deco art and design. He is also an architectural, travel and street photographer, working with 35mm and medium format film cameras, and primarily in monochrome. Ben also holds a Licentiateship with the Royal Photographic Society.