Ovanes Berberian

Reflection

2020

The light filled canvases of Ovanes Berberian evoke a private world of nature in repose. Born in Russian Armenia, Berberian received his primary art education under the guidance of his father who was an important Russian artist, a member of the Armenian Artists’ Society, as well as a theatrical set designer and college art professor. It was in this environment, studying at his fathers art school, Ovanes achieved a significant portion of his art education. In the summer of 1977, following his father’s death, the young Berberian and his three brothers and mother immigrated to the United States, settling in California. In 1981, Ovanes was awarded a scholarship to study with the late master painter and noted teacher, Sergei Bongart. Ovanes said of Bongart, “I was influenced by Sergei more than any other artist. He led me in the direction I needed to go, it was like a light bulb finally came on.” In Idaho near Bongart, Berberian built his home and studio from which he conducts workshops in the summer. His painting style is easily recognizable by his confident blend of color and brush work as depicted in his dramatic landscapes and still lifes. “One of the shinning stars in American art, Ovanes is a nationally renowned teacher and plein aire artist who has been at the forefront of the American art scene for many years. His deep understanding of hue, value, and color relationships make him sought after not only by collectors but by students who come from near and far for a chance to attend one of his workshops. A plein aire purist, he elects to paint on location, inspired by a more direct confrontation with his subject. He states unequivocally that in painting the most important thing is color harmony. Ovanes’ use of color, combined with his dynamic, painterly style, makes each landscape and still life come alive striking a chord deep within the viewer.” Berberian’s paintings are held in numerous private and public collections such as The Forsthye Group, Jack Nicklaus, Doris Mendenhall, and Palm Springs designer Steve Chase.