(1940-2012)
Photo Credit: Maribel De Alba #Pintamialma
A painter and printmaker born in Bosnia, Berber was one of the best-known graphic artists in the world. He went on to study at the Academy of Fine Arts in Ljubljana. From 1992 until his death in October 2012 Berber resided and worked in both Zagreb and Dubrovnik.
Portrait of a woman, oil on canvas, 1940-2012 , NFS
Known for his particularly skilled draughtsmanship in depicting historical and contemporary Bosnian events, Berber frequently employed techniques based in the traditions of Academic European painters like Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres. Throughout his career he created cycles of paintings which chronicle events, homages and dedications. Each cycle has its roots in Bosnian-Herzegovinian history from the medieval to the twentieth century. His works are characterized by the intermingling of ancient motifs with a more modern commentary, captivating in their iconic mystery and intensity. His surfaces are as complex as his subjects, combining techniques from various times and places while maintaining an aesthetic and allure that has drawn collectors for the past 50 years.
He was included in the Tate Gallery collection in 1984. Berber was occupied with painting, graphic art, tapestry, illustrating and preparing bibliographic editions, graphic and poetic maps. His scenography and costume design came to life in theaters in Ljubljana, Zagreb, Sarajevo and Washington. In 1985 Berber finished Tempo Secondo, his own animated cartoon. His works are in private and public collections that include the Tate Gallery in London.