Bernard C. Meyers is an artist who creates art where the nostalgic charm of vintage tools meets the possibilities of modern technology. His work straddles the line between photographic realism and abstract expressionism, creating a dynamic intersection that appeals to both the mind and the heart. Meyers’ art takes you on a journey through time, exploring the beauty of everyday objects, often overlooked in their utilitarian existence, and transforming them into monumental pieces of art.
Meyers’ inspiration stems from his early experiences, particularly the time spent observing his father, a tool and die maker—a profession that has largely vanished in today’s automated world. His father’s dedication to his craft left an indelible mark on Meyers, inspiring him to capture the essence of these tools and their stories through his art. He recalls the days when he learned art disciplines that depended on the simplicity and precision of basic tools. This foundation shaped his artistic journey, driving him to explore the interplay between the tangible and the abstract.
In his work, Meyers seeks to bridge the gap between the past and the present, utilizing digital capture, computers, image creation software, and archival pigment printing. This innovative approach allows him to breathe new life into the objects that have shaped our world, bringing them into today’s context while preserving their history.
His art captures the essence of these tools, emphasizing their grit, age, history, and depth. Meyers’ pieces are more than just visual representations; they are tributes to the sweat equity and craftsmanship that went into creating these instruments. Through his work, he aims to memorialize and monumentalize the importance of these fading tools, celebrating the stories they hold and the impact they have had on society.
Meyers identifies himself as a process artist, embracing the serendipity and discovery that come with experimenting with his materials. Each piece begins with an initial idea and intent, but he allows the creative process to unfold organically, leading to unexpected revelations and new dimensions.
He crafts the background imagery from a blend of materials, using images of color, light, and texture to complement the objects he portrays. This approach results in artworks that are rich in visual texture, with layers of meaning waiting to be uncovered by the viewer.
One of the key aspects of Meyers’ work is its ability to stir eidetic memories—vivid mental images that linger in the mind. He draws inspiration from everyday objects like his father’s hand tools, his grandmother’s kitchen utensils, and antique implements from various trades. These objects hold personal significance for Meyers, each carrying a story and evoking memories of a bygone era.
Through his art, Meyers invites viewers to connect with their own memories and experiences, encouraging them to reflect on the tools and objects that have shaped their lives. His work is a celebration of the stories yet to be told, a reminder of the rich tapestry of history woven into the fabric of everyday life.
Some of Meyers’ notable pieces include “Trimo Nut Wrench” and “Oil Can,” both meticulously crafted and printed on Canson Platine Fibre Rag Paper. These works are part of a limited edition series, with each piece measuring 13.25”x20” and printed on an 18”x24” canvas. Priced at $1,500 each, these artworks are printed and signed by the artist, adding a personal touch to every piece.
- Trimo Nut Wrench: This piece captures the rugged beauty of a vintage wrench, showcasing its worn surfaces and intricate details. The play of light and shadow on the tool’s surface adds depth and character, highlighting its utilitarian elegance.
- Oil Can: In this work, Meyers transforms a simple oil can into a subject of intrigue and fascination. The textured background complements the object, enhancing its historical significance and inviting viewers to ponder the stories it holds.
Bernard C. Meyers’ art is more than a visual experience; it’s a journey through time. His work evokes a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the past, celebrating the beauty and complexity of everyday objects. Through his unique approach, he brings these objects to life, infusing them with a sense of importance and meaning that transcends their original purpose.
Meyers’ art serves as a reminder of the craftsmanship and dedication that defined previous generations, offering a bridge between the tangible and the abstract, the past and the present.
In a world where technology often overshadows tradition, Bernard C. Meyers’ work stands as a tribute to the beauty of simplicity and the power of memory. His art invites us to pause, reflect, and appreciate the objects that have shaped our lives.
