Bernie Herr

Bernie Herr, Award Winning Juried Member of the Watercolor Society of Oregon Since 1989

"A work of art is a source of emotion - with a content that is immediately perceptible to some, but mysterious to others." Watercolor is a compelling force in my life. I try to paint every day and on days that I don't, I feel a little cheated! My subject matter is eclectic and reflects my travels, my garden, and the coastal environment I have chosen for my home. My techniques vary as I am always exploring new methods of using watermedia.

After graduating from a special high school for the arts, I served in the army during World War II. When I returned home to New Jersey I attended Seton Hall University and earned my BA and MA degrees. My vocation for the next 32 years was teacher of health and physical education.

During those years I did a great deal of pencil sketching and occasionally worked in oils and acrylics on canvas, but these media never became a compelling interest.

In 1984 I moved to Florence, Oregon, and it is here that I discovered watercolor. I studied with experienced instructors and tried to keep from going stale by participating each year in workshops offered by artists I admire. These have included many nationally and internationally known artists.

I have taken time out from painting to work with stained glass, pottery relief, leather, and bird carving. But it isn't long before I find myself back at my easel.

My work is in private collections in more than a dozen states, including Hawaii, and also in Canada, Japan, Poland, and Israel."