Ovanes Berberian

Born in Russian Armenia, Ovanes Berberian received his primary art education under the guidance of his father, an important Russian artist, member of the Armenian Artists' Society, theatrical set designer, and college art professor.

It was in this environment, studying at his father's art school, that Ovanes Berberian achieved a significant portion of his art education. In the summer of 1977, following his father's death, the young Ovanes, his three brothers, and their mother emigrated 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 brushwork, 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 makes 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 air 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.