Described as a “creative chameleon,” Benjy Bradshaw is the epitome of a DIY musician… and in our humble opinion he’s an all around artiste! His multi-ethnic background (Native American, Portuguese, English, Irish) and private Catholic school education ultimately contributed to his constant exploration of self through visual and creative transformations. Although he is primarily inspired by dance, house, and new wave music, Benjy also loves to "art direct his life" -- experimenting with photography, makeup, fashion, and design. 
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Meet + Create with Benjy on Saturday, August 16th from 1-4pm at From Here to Sunday in Gowanus as a part of our SASS Summer Popsicle Popup series. RSVP. 
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This is a full transcript from our Keep Pride Alive campaign interviews. It has been edited and condensed for clarity by Solonje Burnett, Weed Auntie. Photos by Benjy Bradshaw. Watch a part of our interview.

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WA = Weed Auntie

BB = Benjy Bradshaw 

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WA: Please tell us your name, preferred pronouns, and career/passions.

BB: My name is Benjy Bradshaw, my pronouns are he/him/his. My passion is music and I’m an independent recording artist here in New York City.

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WA: Give it up for the artists! So what did your family say about weed growing up? 

BB: Growing up, weed was not seen as a good thing. It was a very taboo topic, and we basically thought of it as something that was associated with hippies. There just wasn’t a good light on it. It was for only one type of person and definitely not something we were encouraged to do.

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WA: How does cannabis affect or enhance your creative process whether it’s making a zine, music, or designing a magical piece to adorn your body?

BB: Cannabis opens my eyes. My life is very busy. I am essentially working 6 days a week, from sunrise until bedtime, on all the creative tasks that allow me to be my creative self – music, fashion, makeup, design, etc. Saving a day where I can take cannabis and enjoy life, has become one of my new favorite things, along with SASS gummies and chocolates of course! Even just one day a week without technology, opening my eyes and heart to the world allows me to jump back into my work with more excitement, creative ideas, and joy.

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WA: What does visibility mean to you?

BB: When someone or something is visible, it means it is recognized – whether or not it is also understood. Many of us have lived our lives in the shadows. We have had to tip toe around our identities to please the status quo. By living our true selves, we are opening doors for acknowledgement. By living authentically, we plant seeds in the minds of those who may not understand (and reaffirm growth for those who identify with us). Most importantly, by being visible, we give hope for a kinder world of understanding.

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WA: Has anyone ever judged or labeled you for being a consumer of cannabis?

BB: Luckily I’ve had really supportive friends who have been there and haven’t seen it as a problem. I have that community around now, but it took a while to get there. 

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WA: Do you feel like there’s a lack of authentic representation in the way cannabis users are depicted by brands, media and general pop culture?‍

BB: Yes, I think there’s a huge underrepresentation. I don’t see people like me or like my friends. There’s one type of vision of what it means to be a cannabis consumer. It’s not inclusive and very one-sided.

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WA: What are some ways that we can create a more inclusive and accepting society for cannabis users?

BB: I think to create a more inclusive society, we need to be more mindful and open to the beautiful spectrum of people. There are people everywhere who love cannabis in all different types of forms. We need to have a space that’s about positivity. Giving everyone the freedom and ability to partake with no judgement. No matter how you look. If you’re wearing a little tutu or not. You can consume and enjoy life through the ways that feel like you.

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WA: Love that! What is your favorite way to consume cannabis?

BB: I love edibles. Funny story, I can’t inhale. My freshman year in college, my friend tried to get me high and she gave me (brings his finger to his lips, motioning like he’s puffing on a joint) - I don’t even know what it’s called - and I couldn’t inhale. We were trying to watch Mean Girls and I was laughing so hard. She was like “you’re high” and I was like “no, it’s just a funny movie.” So anyway, it just never worked for me until like 10 years later my friend had an edible and it changed my life!

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WA: Who do you think needs to be deliberately dosed?

BB: Oh! Well – tons of people. I think the bus I took to get here should be dosed because it would be a really fun ride. I would’ve been enjoying life for thirty minutes more before I came here!

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WA: Who is included in your dream sweet sesh of queer icons? Who would you invite to indulge in some SASS with you?

BB: If I had to have someone here having SASS with me, we all know that Lady Gaga would be right here and I’d be like “Here Queen, here you go.” And then who’s the sassiest person I know? Um, a bunch of my drag queen friends and I would be like “Here everybody! Party time!” And we would just have a giant dance party. So Gaga, and all my friends.

Find his music: Traxsource | Beatport | Spotify | Apple Music

Stay in touch: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

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