Born in Russian Armenia, Ovanes 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 father's 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. "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".

Ovanes' 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 shining stars in American art, Ovanes is a nationally renowned teacher and Plein air 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.