The palette of memories

Welcome to an insightful journey into the artistic world of Julien Bernard. Applying his rich background in dance and fashion photography, Bernard seamlessly weaves his experiences into a vibrant narrative that transcends conventional boundaries. In this interview, he delves into the intricate threads of his inspiration, unraveling the stories that dance through his mind and lens. Exploring the nuances of his relationship with color, Bernard reveals the emotive power it holds in shaping his visual language. Join us as we uncover the diverse mediums he masterfully employs in his practice, providing a glimpse into the multifaceted palette that defines the artistry of Julien Bernard.

hube: Your background in dance and fashion photography is quite unique for an artist. How have these experiences influenced your approach to visual art, particularly in terms of exploring human sensuality? 

Julien Bernard: I think it allowed me to sharpen my eye, to refine my taste. It was a kind of training or warm-up for defining the bodies I paint today. 

h: Nature, particularly your childhood in the French countryside, is often described as a significant source of inspiration for your art. How has the natural world shaped your artistic vision and the themes it has introduced into your work? 

JB: Yes, it’s true, it’s a big part of my inspiration. I think it’s the very pure and violent side of the countryside that gives energy to my paintings. But beyond the place itself, it was the people of the countryside that fascinated and inspired me. This gentle mix of tenderness, brutality and honesty still fascinates me! 

h: In art and life, colour often carries symbolic meaning. What is your relationship with colour? 

JB: I’ve often let myself be guided by colour, very directly. Even at a very young age, I was making decisions with colour. I think they are an everyday tool. Many of my memories have a specific colour.

h: Your portfolio showcases a wide range of artistic forms, from aquarelle to acrylic paints and sculpture. What draws you to a specific medium or technique when conceptualizing a new artwork? 

JB: I love the idea of being tempted by new mediums. Not to be afraid of them but rather to be curious. It’s very exciting to start something new. I just want to give myself the right to try. 

h: As an artist, how do you navigate the balance between preserving your unique artistic voice and staying receptive to feedback and critique from the art community you receive? 

JB: I`m open to criticism and feedback, because it creates an exchange and dialogue that can lead to new ideas for me to try. That said I still have my own vision and preferences of why and how I do it, so it really is an exchange of outer and inner. At the end of the day, I create because I need to express myself and because it gives me pleasure, not to have flowers thrown at me. 

h: Looking forward, do you have any upcoming projects or themes you plan to explore in your art that you’d like to share with the audience? 

JB: I have many topics I’d like to cover. I have a lot of notes to spare. But right now I’m leaning towards “form.” Advance in terms of form and highlight the “gesture.” And if all goes as planned you could see that in spring at my exhibition.