When Benny “Blindspots” Schwartz received a diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica in 2014, the rare autoimmune disorder left permanent blind spots in the center of each eye. Rather than surrender to the loss, Schwartz leaned on his Christian faith and turned the darkness into a canvas for hope.
Faith as the Foundation
“I had always been thinking God owed me vision, you know, but that’s not true,” Schwartz said. “Perhaps only through this illness and this kind of struggle am I going to reach my potential.” His belief that God was guiding him through the hardship became the cornerstone of his artistic journey.
From Struggle to Creation
After five years of wrestling with his new reality, a fellow artist urged Schwartz to “create, create, create.” The encouragement led to a pop‑up show where he began painting the blurriness he perceived. “I found myself making lines and shapes and then finding the images, bringing them out,” he explained. In those moments, he felt a brief return of control over his visual field.
Schwartz’s studio now houses a progression of works, from early brushstrokes that echo the uncertainty of his condition to mature pieces that celebrate the beauty of imperfection. His paintings have found homes in galleries and corporate collections, including displays at State Street and JP Morgan Chase.
ArtLifting’s Role
The artist’s breakthrough was amplified by ArtLifting, a nonprofit that markets and advocates for creators with disabilities. Michael Korcek, ArtLifting’s marketing director, said the organization exists to “knock down those doors, knock down those barriers for these artists.” Today ArtLifting represents 235 artists across North America, and Schwartz is among its most compelling stories.
“He really kind of answers the question, what does an artist make with vision loss, not despite it,” Korcek noted. “He started exploring art as an avenue for healing, connection, and really found his voice.”
Impact and Reach
Beyond corporate walls, Schwartz’s work appears in public venues such as the TAG gallery in Boston, bringing his message of perseverance to a broader audience. He credits ArtLifting for providing a platform that allows him to express himself, inspire others, and earn an income—“that’s a home run,” he said.
Schwartz’s story resonates with many who face physical challenges, offering a testament to how faith, creativity, and community support can transform adversity into purpose. For those interested in viewing or acquiring his pieces, his website offers a direct link to the artist’s portfolio.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
