About the Artist
Watercolor in the Nordic Tradition
The subjects in Björn's work have varied over the years: from wildlife and landscapes to abandoned areas and run-down old barns. American culture and music inspire Björn and his travels have generated works of cityscapes and apocalyptic urban subjects. Whatever the subject there is a search for light and the establishment of a mood. Björn's command of flowing water and the unique attributes of individual watercolor pigments combine to produce a distinctive style. His paintings capture the viewer, offer something unexpected and are a pleasure to own. – Steve Balow (collector)
Björn Bernström is a visionary in the world of watercolor—a full-time artist whose mastery of light and fluidity places him among the Nordic region’s most celebrated contemporary painters. His works pulse with contrast, harmony, and an effortless grace that captures the raw essence of his subjects. A sought-after instructor, Björn has spent 15 years sharing his expertise across the Nordics, Europe, Australia, and North America, leaving an indelible mark on the watercolor community. His artistic journey has traversed shifting landscapes—both literal and thematic. From the quiet majesty of Nordic wilderness to the weathered solitude of abandoned barns, his brush breathes life into forgotten spaces. A deep connection to American culture and music infuses his work, giving rise to evocative cityscapes and hauntingly apocalyptic urban visions. But at the heart of every piece lies a singular pursuit: the interplay of light and mood, the delicate alchemy of pigment and water in perfect motion. Born in 1966, Björn refined his craft in art school in the mid-90s before immersing himself fully in the world of watercolor. Between 2014 and 2019, he played a pivotal role on the board of the Nordic Watercolor Society, representing Sweden. Over the years, his work has graced more than 100 exhibitions, both at home and abroad—each one a testament to his evolving exploration of color, contrast, and storytelling. In addition to his artistic practice, Björn has been invited to serve as a jury member for numerous major watercolor exhibitions, further cementing his influence and expertise in the field.
If you are interested in following his activities on a day to day basis, you may follow him on social medias. The icons at the bottom of this (and all) pages on the website will link you to social media feeds.
BRAND AMBASSADOR
Björn is brand ambassador of Arches Papers, Princeton Brushes and Maimeri Watercolors.
THE NORDIC WATERCOLOR SOCIETY
Between 2014 and 2019 he was a member of the board of the Nordic Watercolor Society, representing Sweden.
MEMBERSHIPS
Konstnärernas Riksorganisation(KRO) The Swedish Artists' National Organization
Nordiska Akvarellsällskapet(NAS) The Nordic Watercolor Society
National Watercolor Society (WS) California.
JUROR MISSIONS
Huddinge Vårsalong(2022), Edsvik Konsthall (2017), Väsby Konsthall (2010, 2012, 2015, 2019), German Watercolor Society (2018), Konstringen Mälaröarna, Nordic Watercolor Society.
PRIZE WINNER 2018
Awarded the great prize from the Culture and Recreation Board of Ekerö Municipality. Handed over on Sweden's national day at the Royal Castle Drottningholm, Stockholm in 2018.
WATERCOLOR ORIGINALS FOR SALE
You can make your purchase direct on the website. Pay with Credit Card.
Prices are without framing. Shipping cost(300 SEK) will be added to the amount at check out:
1.Click on a painting.
2.Click on "more info"
3.Click on "add to cart"
4.Follow the check out instructions
View available art here
Svenskar kan betala med Swish:
1. Öppna Swish appen.
2. Ange mitt Swishnummer 123 329 1200
3. Ange totalbelopp. (pris finns angivet under länken "more info" vid varje verk)
4. Som meddelande anger du verkets titel och din leveransadress.
5. Skicka även en meddelande till [email protected] och meddela att du swishat.
Hitta målningar till salu här
FINE ART PRINTS
Some works are available as signed limited edition prints (50 prints). The artworks are printed on Hahnemüle 140 Ib watercolor paper.
WORKSHOPS
Since 2005 he has been tutoring watercolor workshops in Sweden and abroad. If you are interested in booking him for a class, just send an email to akvarellist(at)gmail.com or use the contact form on this website.
MENTORSHIP/ PRIVATE LESSONS
I offer a limited number of watercolor painters the opportunity for my mentorship. Private counseling in a combination of distance support and personal visit to my studio. An individually tailored program is designed for each adept.
For more info click here
INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS / TUTORIALS
Björn offer instructional videos for download/streaming. Inspirational watercolor demonstrations with lots of techniques och tricks for you to enjoy. Have a look at the Video section.
MUSICAL CARRER
Music has always been an important part of his life and ever since he discovered punk music as a young teenager in the late 70's he has played guitar and composed music . Today he has his own band Captain Mary, playing a mix of americana/rock/alt-country music and they are really worth checking out. Available on Spotify.
