Specialist, Prints and Multiples
267.972.9145
sbenakis@freemansauction.com
Stella Benakis brings her passion for prints and photographs to Freeman's, where she serves as a Prints and Multiples specialist within Freeman's Modern and Contemporary Art department. With over 25 years in the art industry, Stella has a wide range of experience working with artists, galleries, museums, and international auction houses. Prior to joining Freeman's, she was Curator of the Francesco Scavullo Retrospective, where she worked closely with Sean M. Byrnes, photo editor and partner of the legendary portrait and fashion photographer Francesco Scavullo.
Born in Montreal, Stella Benakis studied art history and political science at Temple University in Philadelphia. After graduating with a master's degree from the University of Essex, she began her career in London, working with a prominent gallery with a particular focus on European prints from the 18th to 20th centuries. She later joined and was appointed director of one of the UK's leading print publishers of modern and contemporary British artists. Stella has been privileged to meet and work with significant print makers placing original graphics in important corporate and private collections.
Besides working with colleagues who have a similar passion for art, the most rewarding part of working in the auction industry is connecting with clients. Their amazing stories of how artwork came into their possession, whether inherited or curated, are fascinating. Every auction brings new and exciting work to engage with.
When I'm not working, I enjoy listening to music, visiting museums and galleries, and traveling. I'm a member of Art Goes to School, a volunteer organization that brings art appreciation classes to school students in the Delaware Valley.