Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, Ben Bauer is known for his serene landscapes of the Upper Midwest. His childhood was full of explorations of the river valley and wetlands, which created an interest in both the natural world and the close observation of changing seasons. Bauer studied painting at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, and as a 21st-century artist he has incorporated the internet into his art education as well, drawing inspiration from a variety of artists including Hudson River School master George Inness (1825–1894) and California landscapist Edgar Payne (1882–1947), as well as many contemporary masters.

His recent paintings have explored the changing nature of oil paint itself. Professor Janet Whitmore, Ph.D., writes, “Bauer’s work continues to evolve as he explores the imagery of the landscapes around him. A primary objective remains the preservation of these landscapes, whether it is a prairie restoration or the creation of land stewardship trusts to protect existing farmland from development. Because of this profound awareness of the land, Bauer’s paintings capture a strong sense of place, whether it is early spring along Elmo Creek or the vast horizon of a winter wheat field. Most recently, his oil paintings have also become studies in what he describes as ‘ever-changing and temperamental oil paint.’ These works are further explorations in the nature of his medium, as well as reflections of the transitory qualities of seasonal cycles.”

Since 2005, Bauer’s work has been included in numerous gallery exhibitions in Texas, Arizona, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and elsewhere. He lives and works in Minnesota and is represented by Rehs Galleries, Inc. (New York, NY) and A. Banks Gallery (Missoula, MT).