Born in Russian Armenia,
Ovanes 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 father's art school,
Ovanes Berberian achieved a significant portion of his art education.
In the summer of 1977, following his father's death, the young
Ovanes and his three brothers and mother emmigrated to the United
States, settling in California.
In 1981, Ovanes Berberian 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 Berberian's
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.
|