The natural world brims with untold stories, waiting for the right artist to bring them to light. Canadian sculptor Debra Bernier possesses a unique ability to transform ordinary elements – driftwood, feathers, and seashells – into captivating mystical sculptures. Each piece transcends its material form, whispering tales of the natural world and our profound connection to it.
Bernier’s artistic process is one of deep respect and collaboration with nature. Rather than imposing her vision, she seeks to uncover the stories already embedded within the weathered driftwood and the iridescent seashells. Through a meticulous yet intuitive approach, Bernier assembles these found objects, breathing new life into them. The resulting sculptures are imbued with a sense of wonder and mystery, inviting viewers to contemplate the hidden narratives within the natural world.
Bernier’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and artistry that exists all around us. By transforming nature’s discarded treasures into breathtaking sculptures, she compels us to look beyond the ordinary and appreciate the extraordinary stories waiting to be discovered.
When I work with driftwood, I never start with a blank canvas. Each piece of driftwood is already a sculpture, created by the caresses of the waves and wind. The wood tells a story and I try to think of its journey as I hold it in my hand. I extend or shorten the curves and contours that already exist into familiar shapes of animals or peoples’ faces. The finished pieces are a reflection of not only my life, my family, and children, but of an eternal, sacred connection we all share with nature.
Debra Bernier
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