Bernard Bergman (artist)

Bernard Bergman (born July 14, 1937) is a Belgian artist and entrepreneur renowned for his diverse career encompassing hairstyling, fashion, painting, and real estate. His artistic endeavors primarily focus on contemporary and modern paintings distinguished by vibrant color combinations and compelling compositions.
In 2004, Bergman held his first solo exhibition, "Bernard Bergman, UNFOLDED," at Sotheby’s Amsterdam. Notably, he recently contributed the final artwork for the UNICEF gala, showcasing his ongoing commitment to philanthropy and artistic expression.
==Early life and education==
Bergman was born on July 14, 1937, in Antwerp, Belgium. His upbringing was influenced by the aftermath of World War II, with a Russian Parisian mother and a Polish father shaping his early life experiences. Tragically, his mother passed away the hardships of the war during Bergman's youth.
==Career==
Between 1946 and 1962, Bergman delved into hairstyling, receiving training from renowned Parisian hairstylists. His expertise led him to establish "Haute Coiffure Bernard" in Antwerp, showcasing his hairstyling skills. During the same time, Bergman also unveiled his talent as a painter. Select works of his art adorned the walls of his salon, marking the beginning of his artistic journey alongside his ventures in interior design, film production, and real estate.
===Entrepreneurial Ventures (1962–1989):===
From 1962 to 1973, Bergman engaged in various entrepreneurial endeavors. He founded 'BERCA AEROSOL,' a cosmetics factory specializing in developing hair spray cans. Concurrently, he explored innovative painting techniques and ventured into jukebox and slot machine production.
Transitioning to 1973–1989, Bergman focused on fashion, creating collections for domestic and international markets and acquiring ESDERS clothing stores in Brussels.
===Artistic Recognition (2004):===
In 2004, Max Hemelraad, director of business development at Sotheby's, discovered Bergman's art and persuaded him to organize an extensive solo exhibition at Sotheby's. The exhibition, "Bernard Bergman, UNFOLDED," was held from January 9 to January 16, 2004, at Sotheby’s Amsterdam. Featuring around sixty paintings by the Belgian artist and businessman, the exhibition showcased a range of works varying in size from monumental to minuscule pieces, highlighting the profound interplay between emotion and intellect in Bergman's art.
Additionally, the book "Unfolded" by Bernard Bergman, published by Sotheby's Amsterdam, provides a detailed look at the artist's work.
===Artistic Philosophy and Style:===
Bergman's artistic philosophy and style are deeply rooted in his wartime experiences, reflecting influences from Greek, Russian, and Eastern iconography intertwined with geometric elements inspired by Plato. His abstract paintings are characterized by a captivating interplay of light within a geometric force field, aiming to harmonize the concrete with the abstract and the body with the mind. Bergman encourages viewers to engage with his pieces, exploring the interplay between surfaces and colors.
===Later Career and Contributions (1980s Onward):===
In the late 1980s, Bergman founded the real estate agency 'IMMO BIB' with his daughter and son-in-law, undertaking diverse domestic and international projects. 
During the early '90s, he ventured into filmmaking, co-producing an international film and working with famous figures like David Carradine.
===Legacy and Current Pursuits:===
At 86 years old, Bernard Bergman remains devoted to his passion for painting in his studio. In 2023, he contributed the final artwork for the UNICEF gala, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to philanthropy.
==Gallery==
==References==
==External links==
* Personal website
* IMMO BIB
* 
Category:1937 births
Category:Belgian artists
Category:Belgian businesspeople
Category:Belgian people