Today we’d like to introduce you to Ben Dempsey.
Hi Ben, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve had a deep love for aquatic life for as long as I can remember. Fishing started as a childhood hobby, but it eventually evolved into something deeper. About ten years ago, while cleaning a fish I had caught, I found myself captivated by the beauty of its skeletal structure. The intricate design sparked a question: Could this become art? That moment changed everything and Bourbon Fish Artworks was born.
What began as curiosity turned into a new creative pursuit. I dove into the process and started experimenting, learning through trial and error, and sharing my work with others. The feedback I received—both praise and critique—pushed me to refine my technique and expand my vision. Each piece taught me something new, not just about the craft, but about myself.
Today, my artwork is more than a hobby. It’s a reflection of who I am and how I see the world. It’s rooted in nature, shaped by experience, and driven by a passion that’s never faded.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like any meaningful journey, it hasn’t always been smooth. The artistic process has been a continuous journey of learning and growth. I feel that each piece tells its own story, making every final display as unique as the specimen itself. Each one presents it’s own set of challenges – some come together easily, others demand more patience and problem solving. This pushes me to adapt, refine, and evolve with every creation. Hearing the positive and encouraging feedback from my customers makes every struggle worth the extra effort it takes to find creative and different solutions.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I describe my work as a fusion of art, nature, and storytelling. I specialize in transforming the skeletal structures of fish and other aquatic life into striking, one-of-a-kind pieces. As I mentioned before, this was born from a passion that has always held a special place in my heart, and I feel that this distinctive art form captures the elegance and raw beauty of the underwater world.
These specimens are ethically sourced from both freshwater and saltwater habitats. The bones are meticulously stripped and cleaned using dermestid beetles—a method shared by museums and taxidermists—then reassembled by hand, one bone at a time. The process is akin to solving a delicate jigsaw puzzle, requiring anywhere from 20 to 100 hours depending on the specimen’s size and complexity.
Once assembled, the skeleton is coated in multiple layers of liquid metal—typically tin or copper—and treated with patina acid to create a rich, aged finish. A clear coat sealer is then applied to preserve the piece’s appearance and integrity. Each completed work is then mounted in a custom frame or shadow box, thoughtfully designed to complement the unique character of the specimen.
At its core, Bourbon Fish Artworks is a celebration of life beneath the surface—where craftsmanship meets curiosity, and nature becomes art.
What were you like growing up?
I grew up in North Texas, a typical kid with an untamed love for the outdoors. I’ve always had a friendly nature and found it easy to connect with others, never feeling the need to fit into any particular clique. My favorite place to be—then and now—is anywhere near the water. There’s something about it that’s always felt like home.
Serving in the military gave me the opportunity to travel across the United States and to different parts of the world. That experience deepened my appreciation for the natural beauty found in every corner of the globe.
I believe my artistic side first surfaced in middle school, though I didn’t fully embrace it until much later in life. It wasn’t a straight path—it was more of a quiet unfolding. Over time, I came to realize that creativity wasn’t just a hobby; it was a lens through which I experience the world.
Pricing:
- It varies depending on the specific piece
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bourbonfish.com
- Instagram: @bourbonfishart
