Bethany Lentini

Bethany Lentini is a New York based painter. She received her BFA from the School of Visual Arts in May of 2022 with a major in illustration and is currently studying at the New York Academy of Art under the MFA painting program. Her most recent work focuses on painting portraits of people with whom she has close relationships (family, friends, mentors, etc) through the use of amplified colors and nuanced hues.

Collect Bean: What does growth mean to you? 

Bethany Lentini: Growth is allowing yourself to learn. It is not linear, and I am always patient with myself through the high and low points. I apply this to my artistic practice as well. Push the boundaries and then pull away again! Within that, I find endless possibilities.  

Collect Bean: If you had to describe your work in only three words, what would they be? 

Bethany Lentini: Loving, vibrant, and honest. My work reflects my life and the wonderful  relationships around me. 

Collect Bean: What is the kindest thing someone can tell you about your work?  

Bethany Lentini: Since I am primarily invested in portrait painting, the kindest thing someone can tell me about my work is that they can feel the love I have for the people I paint. It is also a beautiful experience to have someone immediately recognize each person’s likeness.  

Collect Bean: What does your painting process look like from start to finish? 

Bethany Lentini: I will always let myself be free in the beginning stages of my paintings. I tone my surface with a color that feels the most unified with my overall palette. Then, I make a very suggestive drawing that eventually builds into something satisfying. The most exciting thing about my painting practice is when I make a decision that initially freaks me out and ends up being my favorite part of the piece.  

Collect Bean: Do you have a saying that you live by? 

Bethany Lentini: A saying that I often tell myself is, “You’ll never know until you try.” That applies to everything…especially in painting!