Harriet Bernstein Bio

My journey into art began in SoHo, New York, during the vibrant art scene of the 1980s. While immersed in improvisational dance, I spent my off hours looking at art.

The soft pastel colors of Agnes Martin’s meditative canvases captured me and I knew one day I would make paintings inspired by her.

Years later, heartened by the beauty of Martha’s Vineyard and fueled by the stillness of the pandemic, I began painting in my West Tisbury home. Each painting a pleasant surprise. Every color a delight.

Agnes Martin once said, “The attractiveness of artwork is that it is adventurous, strenuous, and joyful.”

I concur.

Artistic Statement

I am interested in abstraction. It is a respite from representation and the objective world. Abstract art is freedom to me. It feels free to make it and hopefully it brings a viewer’s attention to their own innate and personal freedom.

In addition, color thrills me.  I grab colors like notes and make visual music. Artistic elements such as composition, line, mark and drawing engage my mind and are important, but color lifts my feet off the ground. I aim for my paintings to be grounded, mindful and intelligent but under a cloak of color that harmonizes, satisfies and communicates a feeling.