Many of us tend to ignore old pieces of wood we come across on the ground. We simply see them as ordinary sticks with no significance. However, for Canadian artist Debra Bernier, these pieces of driftwood are sources of inspiration. She sees the grooves, pits, and fractures in them as intricate artworks created by nature. Drawing from the earth’s enchantment, she transforms these humble materials into her mesmerizing creations.
By delicately adding driftwood fragments to her pieces, Bernier creates extraordinary sculptures that capture the essence of both humans and animals, resulting in ethereal and everlasting works of art. Rooted in her reverence for the natural world bestowed upon us by a higher power, her artwork serves as a testament to the intricate bond between mankind and nature. Bernier draws inspiration from her deep love for the environment, her empathy towards animals, and the profound sacrifices made by women.
According to Bernier, her completed artworks not only reflect her own life, family, and children, but also embody the timeless and sacred connection shared by all of us with nature. This connection serves as the foundation for her creative process. Ever since she was a young child, Bernier has been enamored with the beach and the boundless ocean that stretches before it, viewing it as a realm of enchantment and boundless imagination.
“The inner child within me is perpetually captivated by the intricate wood formations, the glistening sunlight that dances upon the water’s surface, the smooth ash-gray stones, and the briny essence of seaweed,” she explains, illustrating her enduring fascination with the coastal wonders that inspire her artistry.
Wood is a truly exquisite substance that offers an abundance of imaginative opportunities for artisans, creators, and artists alike. Acting as a blank canvas for stunning paintings or a medium for the creation of lifelike sculptures, wood never fails to exude an enchanting allure.
As an artist herself, she expresses her profound appreciation for wood, seeing it not merely as a material, but as a vessel of stories waiting to be unveiled. She lovingly contemplates its journey, letting her hands guide the process of extending or reducing its existing curves and contours, transforming them into recognizable forms of majestic creatures or the visages of individuals.
Apart from its stunning beauty, the sculptures by Bernier also draw inspiration from the natural decay caused by weather conditions. To enhance the depth of her creations, she sometimes includes organic elements such as clay or shells within the wooden medium.
Take a moment to browse through her impressive portfolio showcased below. And remember, the next encounter you have with a piece of driftwood or a weathered branch, take a pause and truly observe it. You never know, it might just ignite a spark of inspiration within you!
A glance at her exquisite sculptures reveals a profound exploration of the intricate lives led by women. These sculptures beautifully depict themes of love, companionship, and the beauty of motherhood. Yet, they also delve into the healing process, moments of doubt, and the remarkable inner resilience possessed by women.
Ever since she was a young girl, Bernier has been captivated by the beach and the vast expanse of the ocean. To her, it has always seemed like a realm of enchantment and boundless creativity.
“The child within me still finds wonder in the intricate patterns of driftwood, the mesmerizing play of sunlight on the water’s surface, the velvety touch of smooth, gray stones, and the briny allure of seaweed,” she fondly expresses.
You can find these exquisite sculptures for sale in Bernier’s Etsy store, where you’ll also discover affordable printed cards featuring these stunning artworks.