Five questions to Rita Bernstein

Five questions to Rita Bernstein

Rita Bernstein was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1950. She lives and works in both Philadelphia and New York. Following a career as a civil rights attorney, she earned an MFA and has been a working artist in several genres for many years. 

How did you get into art?

Since early childhood, I have been very visually sensitive. My parents were lovers of art and culture, and I absorbed a great deal through osmosis. My first serious foray into artmaking was via (analog) photography.


How would you describe your style? What makes your art special?

I make works on paper which are understated, spare, and reticent; every mark is carefully considered. In a world in which so much seems big, loud, and competing for attention, I value what is otherwise and regret that it is often overlooked. I am interested in how little one can say and still convey meaning.

How do you go about developing your work?

I create my pieces intuitively by reflecting on both inner and social landscapes.

Who or what influences you? 

I am primarily influenced by literature, especially poetry.

What are you planning to do next?

A restless artist, I am always exploring new ways to express my ideas. At the moment (and this moment may be fleeting, only to change and evolve…), I am considering using newspaper (specifically my longtime bible, the daily New York Times) as substrate and also incorporating text into my pieces.  ‘Hope you will stay tuned!

Instagram