Björn Bernström: An artist who masters Nordic light
Born in Hultsfred, Sweden in 1966, Björn Bernström is an iconic figure in the world of watercolour. From a very young age, he was drawn to nature and spent his weekends observing the fauna and birds of the ruggedly beautiful area around Hultsfred. In parallel, he developed a passion for music and, influenced by the emergence of punk rock, formed local groups such as The Rubbish and Zwän Ruth. This fusion of music and nature had a profound influence on his art, imbuing his paintings with a unique harmony of light and contrast.
Bernström moved to Stockholm in 1986. He studied art at Ölands Skogsby from 1994 to 1995. That was where he found his calling and began to paint watercolour, a medium that perfectly captured the subtle essence of the Nordic landscapes that inspired him so much. In 2008, Bernström made a bold decision, which was to fully devote himself to watercolour; this decision would end up shaping his career and positioning him among the most influential contemporary artists of the Nordic region.
© Björn Bernström – ANTARCTICA – Watercolour on ARCHES® Aquarelle cold pressed paper
© Björn Bernström – King Penguins – Watercolour on ARCHES® Aquarelle cold pressed paper
© Björn Bernström – In the curve – Watercolour on ARCHES® Aquarelle cold pressed paper
© Björn Bernström – Winter farm – Watercolour on ARCHES® Aquarelle cold pressed paper
Björn Bernström’s works draw their essence from Nordic landscapes, where the intense, sharp light contrasts with the vast, sparsely populated expanses. His paintings often depict isolated, abandoned houses – buildings which, by their mere presence, tell stories of solitude and resilience. Through these works, Bernström captures not only moments from the real world but also interior compositions devised in his studio, where he gives free rein to his imagination.
“I strive for a play of light and contrasts, preferably with a touch of melancholy and desolation”.
© Björn Bernström – Memories of Slussen small – Watercolour on ARCHES® Aquarelle cold pressed paper
Known for his distinctive style, Bernström has taken part in over 100 exhibitions, both in Sweden and abroad. His work has been praised for the way it uniquely captures light and atmosphere, which is often compared to photography for its precision but bears the mark of his own singular artistic expression. Bernström’s techniques are characterised by the use of effects that have often been considered errors in traditional watercolour, such as ‘reprocessing’ and ‘erasing’, although he sees these as creative assets.
© Björn Bernström – Lofoten and Anchored – Watercolour on ARCHES® Aquarelle cold pressed paper
As a highly sought-after watercolour instructor, Bernström has taught thousands of students all around the world, in particular in Scandinavia, Australia, Italy and the United States. His workshops are known for breaking artistic conventions, encouraging their participants to paint without any barriers or inhibitions.
An active member of the Nordic Watercolour Society and the Swedish Artists’ National Organisation, Bernström has also served in these organisations in various capacities, contributing to the rise of watercolour as a major art form. His influence extends beyond his own works, strengthening the Nordic artistic community and inspiring a new generation of artists.
Today, Björn Bernström’s works can be found in various institutions and private collections throughout the world.
