Petra Bernstein does not limit herself to one medium in her quest to depict the natural beauty of Maryland's shore. The artist uses both digital photography and oil painting to capture the delicacy of nature, especially those moments that dissolve in a flash: a colorful sunset, a soft morning mist, an unforeseen reflection in the water. Bernstein's compositions swing from up close to far away. Her palette is lush and celebratory. Her work shows verdant landscapes, mysterious trees, interesting clouds, sparkling waters, soaring eagles – everything organic and peaceful.
Bernstein also frequently creates abstract works in both watercolors and in oil; these pieces are all about rapid movement and intuitive strokes. They are stripped down to form and color, while experimenting with geometry, contrast, and light.
Bernstein was born in Bavaria, Germany and currently lives in Maryland. She has received several prestigious awards for her artwork.