Class: 1995Inducted: 2024
Knowledge Bennett, born in 1976 in Asbury Park, NJ, is the youngest of three children born to John and Frances Bennett. He had a remarkable upbringing, attending Bangs Avenue Elementary School, Asbury Park Middle School, and Asbury Park High School. During his time there, Knowledge exhibited exceptional talent, serving as the head captain of the A.P.H.S. football team and achieving the status of an all-state athlete on the A.P.H.S. track team.
After graduating from high school, Knowledge pursued a higher education at The College of New Jersey, formerly known as Trenton State College. However, tragedy struck when he lost his best friend to violence, leading him to unenroll from college and explore alternative paths of personal growth.
Knowledge dedicated years to building and operating businesses in and around his city, honing his entrepreneurial skills. Eventually, he ventured into the world of fine arts, operating a photography and paint studio in New York City. It was during this time that he made the life-changing decision to relocate to Los Angeles, CA, stating that the city provided him with the opportunity and resources to surpass his wildest dreams. Los Angeles became his haven for artistic expression, leading to numerous international exhibitions and establishing him as a highly sought-after artist.
In 2018, Knowledge fulfilled another milestone by launching his own fine art gallery, The Know Contemporary, in Los Angeles. The gallery has hosted some of his most significant exhibitions to date, and Knowledge has also curated solo and group exhibitions featuring other talented artists.
In addition to his successful fine arts career, Knowledge ventured into the world of film and television. He made his debut on Netflix's #1 series, 'BLACKAF' created by Kenya Barris. Subsequently, he appeared in various other TV shows, including 'Most Expensivest' on Vice TV and 'Anatomy of Black Art' on REVOLT TV. Currently, Knowledge is working on his directorial debut, a docuseries set in Los Angeles, which will be produced under his own production company. This project marks the beginning of a promising career in the film industry for Knowledge Bennett.
Knowledge has made significant philanthropic contributions, including providing financial support to his hometown youth football league. Additionally, he played a crucial role in helping to fund a young student from A.P.H.S. to fulfill his dream of obtaining a pilot's license. Knowledge also serves as a mentor to numerous aspiring artists and entrepreneurs in the Los Angeles area, offering guidance and support. Furthermore, he utilizes the proceeds from his artwork sales to make contributions to various charity foundations throughout the country.