Robert C. and Susan Savage Community Gallery
November 13, 2024 - January 26, 2025
This collection of oil paintings by local artist Bernadine Rais transports viewers into the enchanting world of nocturnal suburban landscapes, inspired by the tranquil moments of dusk and the beauty of twilight as the artist explores local streets. Experience the delicate interplay of light and shadow and immerse yourself in soft hues and serene compositions. Each piece invites visitors to connect with their own experiences and find solace in shared moments of stillness.
Artist Statement
My artistic journey began nine years ago, focused in the timeless traditions of portraiture and human anatomy. Yet, it was during the summer of 2020, spending considerable time amidst the tranquility of gardening and walking through nearby neighborhoods, that my vision transformed. In those twilight hours, I became captivated by the magic of nocturnal scenes.
I find inspiration in the delicate nuances of dusk as the sun slips between houses, looking for new blooms, watching ducks swim and the specific compellingly beautiful blue that envelops the sky. As darkness descends, I wander through my hometown of Toledo, OH, seeking scenes that capture the profound emotions and contemplative silence that nighttime offers.
Through my work, I endeavor to evoke a sense of contemplation, inviting viewers to engage with reflections of their own experiences.
I aspire to bring forth a sense of familiarity and comfort, allowing each observer to find solace in shared moments. In this dance of light and shadow, I hope to cultivate connections that transcend the canvas, inviting contemplation within the stillness of night and receiving reassurance that they are not alone.
Biography
Bernadine Rais is a contemporary oil painter specializing in nocturnal scenes capturing the quiet beauty and simplicity of the Midwest landscape. Raised in Toledo, Ohio she developed a deep connection to the region and aimed to find beauty and inspiration within her immediate surroundings.
Her paintings depict the Midwest under the veil of nightfall, where dusk casts gentle shadows across neighborhoods, vast fields, and main roads lit by streetlights. Through meticulous brushwork and a mastery of light and shadow, she brings to life scenes that resonate with both familiarity and an ethereal quality, inviting viewers to contemplate the subtle nuances of solitude.
Bernadine's journey as an artist began when she was 20 years old; much of her journey was self-taught with an initial passion for life subjects such as human anatomy and portraits. Since then, her work has been awarded nationally and locally, earning acclaim for its atmospheric depth and emotional resonance.
Inspired by the works of Edward Hopper and John Singer Sargent, she continues to explore and reinterpret the nocturnal landscape, seeking to evoke a sense of tranquility and introspection through her art. Her distinctive style and dedication to capturing the essence of the Midwest at night have established her as a unique voice in contemporary landscape painting.
Organized by the Toledo Museum of Art as part of the Robert C. and Susan Savage Community Gallery which operates as a catalyst of creativity, mentorship and opportunity while fostering mutually enriching relationships with local, regional, and national artists with an emphasis on community engagement.
All sales on original artwork are final. No discounts apply.
The exhibition ends on January 26, 2025. Purchases may be picked up after this date. Please contact 419-255-8000 ext. 7326 to schedule an appointment for pickup.