Benny Cruz x Garphyttan | Art Meets Outdoor Living

Benny Cruz x Garphyttan – Where Art Meets Outdoor Living

With the city as his backdrop and emotion as his medium, New York–based text artist Benny Cruz creates heartfelt work that resonates deeply. Known for his Gratitude series—handwritten messages on NYC subway maps—he explores themes of identity, belonging, and human connection.

We sat down with Benny to talk about creativity, gratitude, and how New York continues to shape his art.

Hi Benny! For those who don’t know you – who is Benny Cruz, and what has your journey been like up until now?

My journey as an artist truly began in New York, though it wasn’t a straight path. I did attend art school but I quickly realized it wasn’t for me.

I was an apprentice under the late Chilean artist Alfredo Mosella.

I shifted from figurative painting to text-based work, inspired by my youth when I used to tag. That change helped me find my voice. When I stopped trying to please others, people in New York began to notice me. That’s when The Gratitude Series was born, a way to thank the city for seeing me.

Can you tell us about your art – what inspires you, and what do you hope to express through your work?

What inspires me most is expressing emotion through art.
Everyday life fuels me, relationships, longing, joy, sadness, and connection. New York, especially, feels like home and plays a big part in who I am.

I’m also deeply inspired by Mothermary, a twin sister duo who rebuilt their lives in Brooklyn after leaving a cult. For them, New York became a symbol of freedom and renewal. They embody the spirit of my own rebirth in NY.

Over time, l’ve done a lot of inner work around emotional safety, with support from women I trust deeply.

In short: I create to feel, to heal, and to stay real. My work is raw, handmade, and unfiltered just like me.

Is there a particular material or medium you often return to? And if so, why that one?

I work with text in many ways, but the constant is always the words. I use markers like Posca and Krink NYC, and sometimes aerosol—on paper, canvas, walls, even vehicles.

I also create large paper cutouts and install bold letters in public spaces like cafés and hotels, often through collaborations.

I’m drawn to these raw, handmade methods. They’re imperfect, energetic, and real—just like me.

How does your art respond to the place you’re in—whether that’s nature or the city?

My surroundings always shape my creative process. At home, I live near a forest and a small mountain—deer, hares, and magpies are regular visitors. It’s quiet and grounding, the opposite of New York.

In contrast, New York turns into my studio. I work in places like the Wythe Hotel, which feels like a second home, and even on the subway, where I sketch on hotel stationery and sometimes spark conversations. People occasionally recognize me, which still feels surreal—especially since I’m anonymous back in Europe.

I’m aiming so high I keep forgetting I’m already living my dream. – Benny Cruz”

What role does nature play in your life – is it a refuge, a source of inspiration, or something else entirely?

Nature is how I recharge. I can spend hours just watching birds—birdsong really affects me. Squirrels often show up too, which reminds me of New York.

Lately, I’ve spent more time in the countryside since my son’s gotten into fishing—something I loved as a kid. I think he might pull me back into it.

Do you feel there’s a connection between your art and Garphyttan’s philosophy or aesthetic?

Absolutely. I love Garphyttan shirts—the colors, fit, and especially the extra pockets for my tools. They suit me aesthetically and functionally.

I usually wear brands like Carhartt or WIP, which feel very “Brooklyn,” but Garphyttan gives me that same vibe. Comfortable, versatile, and perfect whether I’m working in New York, out in nature, or at a jazz club. Just like my art—it fits anywhere.

What’s your favorite Garphyttan piece—and why that one in particular?

My favorite piece is the Garden Shirt—with the two large back pockets that are perfect for carrying subway maps, tape, and markers while I work in the city.

I also really connect with Garphyttan’s focus on outdoor living. I’m always outside, whether in New York or Europe, and nature is part of my daily life. I care deeply about the climate, which is why I also use paper from Lessebo—one of the world’s most eco-friendly producers. I discovered them through a Swedish agency called Live reklambyrå.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone who wants to follow their passion—whether it’s art or something else—what would it be?

I don’t usually give advice—everyone’s journey is different. But I believe obstacles are there to be faced and learned from. You often don’t see the value until you’ve made it through. As hard as those moments are, they help us grow and uncover strength we didn’t know we had.