Mike Bernard RI

Coastal & Harbour Paintings

Mike Bernard RI is an award-winning artist based in North Devon, known for his distinctive collage and mixed-media paintings. Harbours, coastal towns, markets and street scenes in Britain and abroad provide subjects for his work, combining layered textures, expressive colour and carefully chosen detail.

Since moving to Devon in 2008, Mike has found particular inspiration in the light. His semi-abstract paintings capture the character and atmosphere of a place.

Collage, Colour & Texture

Mike begins with sketches made on location, selecting details that capture the essence of his subject. Back in the studio, he builds compositions with layers of newspaper, tissue and other printed papers.

‘I create shapes which relate to the abstract structure of the subject. I then apply acrylic ink in bold, random strokes, which encourages wonderful colour and textural “happy accidents”. From this state of chaos, I endeavour to define the subject through various drawing techniques. The finished painting has recognisable passages, while retaining a semi-abstract, impressionistic feel, engaging the viewer’s imagination.’

– Mike Bernard

Mike’s mastery of collage, assured use of bold colour and finely judged detail are combined with a keen eye for composition and perspective. Refined over decades of experimentation and practice, his distinctive style makes his paintings immediately recognisable.

Background & Recognition

Born in Dover, Kent, in 1957, Mike trained at West Surrey College of Art and Design in Farnham before undertaking postgraduate studies at the Royal Academy Schools. He was elected a member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours in 1997.

His exhibition history includes the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and the RI’s annual exhibition at the Mall Galleries. His awards include the Laing Landscape Painting Award and the Ranelagh Press Award, and he has an established following of collectors.

Mike’s career has also included teaching in art colleges and adult education, alongside running private painting courses. He shares his techniques in Collage, Colour and Texture in Painting, written with Robin Capon, and Experimental Coasts in Mixed Media, written with Susie Hodge.

Mike Bernard RI Original Paintings at Echo Beach Gallery

Mike Bernard RI is represented by Echo Beach Gallery in Ilfracombe, North Devon.

Browse his available original paintings below, visit us at the gallery in Ilfracombe, North Devon, or contact us for further information, delivery enquiries or help choosing a painting.