About
Bernard Palchick: Artist and Educator
Introduction
Bernard Palchick stands out as both a skilled watercolorist and an accomplished oil painter,
exploring a diverse range of artistic styles that include abstraction and magic realism. His formal
education began with a Bachelor of Arts from Purdue University, followed by a Master of Fine
Arts from the Rhode Island School of Design.
Professional Career
Palchick’s career extends beyond painting and sculpture. Over several decades, he has played
multiple roles at Kalamazoo College in Kalamazoo, Michigan, serving as a professor of art, an
arts administrator, and a college administrator. His works have been widely exhibited and are
included in numerous public, private, and corporate collections.
Artistic Philosophy and Inspiration
Deeply inspired by the direct observation of nature, Palchick finds joy in celebrating the beauty
present in even the smallest details. Elements from the observable world—such as the vast
expanse of landscapes, the intricate grain of a stone, the delicate patterns of a bird’s feathers,
and the interplay of light on translucent glass—serve as muses for his work. For Palchick,
painting is an energizing process that combines comprehension with meditation.
Themes and Artistic Approach
Modern myths, rituals, and the exploration of liminal space are central to the imagery in
Palchick’s paintings. His selection of objects and their unique, sometimes whimsical
juxtapositions are creative attempts to explore the magic inherent in textures, colors, trees,
rocks, string, marbles, fields, mountains, and clouds. Through his art, Palchick invites viewers to
immerse themselves in the world within his paintings, encouraging them to discover beauty in
the details and to invent their own myths, rituals, and personal interpretations.
Further Information
Additional information about Bernard Palchick and his work can be found at BernardPalchick.com.