Fly-Fishing Artist Paints Rivers with Unique Technique

Ben Miller's artwork depicting endangered waterways is on display at Expo Chicago art fair at Navy Pier.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:38pm

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A striking abstract composition of jagged, interlocking geometric shapes in shades of blue, green, and white, conceptually representing the flow and energy of a river.An artist's unique fly-fishing inspired technique brings the dynamic movement of endangered rivers to life on canvas.Chicago Today

Artist Ben Miller has found a unique way to create paintings using a fly-fishing rod and reel instead of a traditional paintbrush. Miller, who has been fly-fishing since childhood, casts paint onto plexiglass from 20 feet away to depict rivers and waterways, including the endangered Chicago River. His latest works are being exhibited at the Expo Chicago Contemporary Art Fair at Navy Pier, with proceeds from the sale of his Chicago paintings going to the nonprofit Friends of the Chicago River.

Why it matters

Miller's innovative technique combines his passions for art and fly-fishing, allowing him to create dynamic paintings that capture the movement and essence of rivers. By highlighting endangered waterways through his art, Miller aims to raise awareness and support conservation efforts in the communities he depicts.

The details

Using a 9-foot fly-fishing rod, Miller casts paint onto plexiglass to create his unique artworks. He has crafted about 50 specialized 'fly brushes' by hand to achieve different effects, such as the 'pompompom' brush that allows him to depict multiple stones at once. Miller says his technique allows him to capture the velocity, length, and singular mark of a cast in a way that would be impossible with a traditional paintbrush.

  • Miller has been fly-fishing since he was a child growing up in Washington state.
  • Miller created a painting of the Chicago River downtown along the Riverwalk in two days.
  • Expo Chicago, where Miller's latest works are being exhibited, runs through Sunday, April 13, 2026.

The players

Ben Miller

An artist who uses a fly-fishing rod and reel as his 'paintbrush' to create dynamic paintings depicting rivers and waterways.

Friends of the Chicago River

A nonprofit organization that works to improve the health of the Chicago River and its surrounding communities. Proceeds from the sale of Miller's Chicago River paintings will go to support their conservation efforts.

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What they’re saying

“I've been fly-fishing since I was little, and then pursued the arts, and then one day it came together, and then it's just been one thing after another.”

— Ben Miller, Artist

“How healthy is the river is going to say how healthy your city is.”

— Ben Miller, Artist

What’s next

Miller's latest works will be on display at the Expo Chicago Contemporary Art Fair at Navy Pier through Sunday, April 13, 2026. Visitors will have the opportunity to see his unique fly-fishing inspired paintings and learn more about his artistic process and the conservation efforts he supports.

The takeaway

Ben Miller's innovative use of a fly-fishing rod and reel to create dynamic paintings of rivers and waterways not only showcases his artistic talent but also highlights the importance of environmental conservation. By directing proceeds from the sale of his works to the Friends of the Chicago River, Miller is using his art to make a tangible impact on the health of the communities he depicts.