by Bernice Shaller

Bernice Shaller, a distinguished artist born in Washington, D.C., has dedicated over five decades to mastering her craft and evolving her artistic expression. With a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland and a master's from George Washington University in Education and Human Development, Shaller's journey has been marked by a deep commitment to both technical excellence and creative exploration. Her work, widely recognized for its vibrant colors and spiritual depth, is represented in prestigious collections and has been showcased in numerous exhibitions across the United States and abroad.
Shaller's early experiences at the National Gallery of Art were instrumental in shaping her approach to mastering different painting techniques. It was here, amidst the timeless works of the old masters, that she honed her technical expertise. "I perfected my technical expertise over many years at the National Gallery of Art by researching and copying the old masters," Shaller reflects. "Doing this exposed me to various techniques, and after absorbing them, I was able to arrive at my own way of working." This rigorous practice not only refined her skills but also laid the foundation for her unique artistic voice.
As Shaller's career progressed, she found herself drawn away from traditional subjects and began exploring more imaginative and heart-driven work. This transition was not merely a stylistic choice but was deeply influenced by personal challenges. "Truth be told, I developed small airways disease, thus making it more difficult to work on-site," Shaller explains. "I started to work with my imagination and heart by going inward." This inward journey allowed her to tap into a deeper well of creativity, leading to works that are not just visually compelling but also emotionally resonant.
A significant turning point in Shaller's artistic journey came when she was advised to stop using oil paints due to her sensitivity to the medium, which had exacerbated her pulmonary condition. Despite this setback, Shaller's resilience and innovative spirit led her to experiment with other materials. "I became a proficient oil painter," she notes. "When told to stop painting in oil, I started experimenting with various mediums. I loved the effect of gold leaf and egg tempera, so I developed a unique technique using egg tempera, updating a method used centuries ago." This adaptation not only preserved her ability to create but also infused her work with a new, distinctive quality that set it apart.
Shaller's philosophy, heavily influenced by the teachings of Robert Henri, has been a guiding force throughout her career. Henri's belief that "the object, which is back of every true work of art, is the attainment of a state of being, a state of high functioning, a more than ordinary moment of existence" resonates deeply with Shaller. She describes her experience of painting as transformative, saying, "When I paint, I am transformed… when finished, it’s like waking from a dream." This profound connection to her work is evident in every piece she creates, each one a reflection of her inner world and her journey as an artist.
Recognition of Shaller's work by prestigious institutions such as the National Gallery of Art and the National Association of Women Artists is a testament to her contributions to the art world. While the National Gallery of Art houses slides of her artwork in their slide library, Shaller humbly acknowledges that they have yet to acquire one of her paintings. Nonetheless, she considers it an honor to be recognized by these esteemed organizations. "I was honored to be a part of the National Association of Women Artists," she says, underscoring the significance of this acknowledgment in her career.
Throughout her life, Bernice Shaller has navigated the challenges and triumphs of a career in art with grace and determination. Her ability to adapt, her dedication to her craft, and her unwavering commitment to expressing her inner vision have made her a respected and beloved figure in the art community. As her work continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the power of imagination, heart, and the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.
Kommentarer