Richard Berner, an internationally renowned pop artist, was born in Brighton, United Kingdom. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in art, particularly influenced by the animations of Disney. This passion for drawing led him to pursue formal education in the arts. He attended college in Twickenham and later enrolled in art school in Wimbledon and London.
Despite his initial enthusiasm for art, Berner faced discouragement from his teachers in art school, who criticized his work heavily. Feeling disheartened, Berner decided to take a break and embarked on a year-long journey around the world. During his travels through countries like Kenya, Tanzania, China, Fiji, and Mexico, he found inspiration in the diverse cultures and landscapes he encountered.
Upon returning home, Berner reignited his passion for drawing. He experimented with various mediums such as ink, fine liner pen, and gouache paint, producing unique and intricate pieces that captivated audiences worldwide. His work caught the attention of art galleries, and he began exhibiting at prestigious locations like The Old Bank Vault, Art Republic, Lilford Gallery in Kent, and the Roy's People Art Fair.
Berner's artwork is characterized by its complexity and attention to detail. His most famous pieces often feature images that, at first glance, appear as single items or figures. However, upon closer examination, viewers discover that these images are composed of numerous tiny individual figures, which Berner lovingly refers to as "champs."
Throughout his career, Berner has drawn inspiration from iconic artists like Salvador Dalí and MC Escher. Their surrealistic and intricate styles have influenced his own approach to art, leading to the creation of truly unique and thought-provoking pieces. Berner's work continues to captivate audiences worldwide, cementing his status as a celebrated pop artist.