Bank Hosts Photography Exhibit by Local Artist
As part of an ongoing effort to provide value to the community, Bankwell in New Canaan is hosting an exhibit of photographs by Silvermine area resident Thomas S. Berntsen themed “The Aqueux Collection” through January at the Bank’s 208 Elm Street branch. The Carriage Barn Arts Center helped select the artist and organize the exhibit.The community is invited to an opening reception at the bank on November 20th from 6-7:30 pm.
Mr. Berntsen, who is originally from New York, received a BS in Professional Photography from the Rochester Institute of Technology in 1977, and began his career photographing historically significant homes, large residential projects and commercial interiors for major magazines. Over time, he shifted the focus of his work to advertising and marketing work for high-end firms specializing in the decorative arts.
A little over 12 years ago, a new path was presented to Berntsen, as he became inspired to express himself creatively. He began photographing dried leaves in a theatrical manner, and out of this expression came a body of work entitled “Dancing Leaves.” From this also sprang a body of sculptural works as the artist continued to explore meaningful imagery. This led to several major commissions of sculpture in both steel and bronze. Reflecting on his own meditative practice, Berntsen has used the mythical labyrinth archetype as a foundation to build a series of sculptures and photographs. “The Aqueux Collection” is the latest iteration of his creative journey.
Berntsen has exhibited as part of collections and galleries in New York, Connecticut and Boston, including the Silvermine Guild of Art and the Carriage Barn Arts Center in New Canaan. He is represented by Lionheart Gallery in Pound Ridge, New York and his work can be seen at www.tsberntsen.com. Berntsen was recently awarded an Innovation Award by the Westport Arts Advisory Committee for his work involving 3-D Printing in the Visual Arts.
Mr. Berntsen’s exhibit is part of an ongoing series presented by the Bank intended to create awareness about local artists. As New Canaan’s only locally-owned, independent commercial bank, Bankwell is committed to providing value to the community and the highest possible level of service to its customers. More information about Bankwell can be found at www.mybankwell.com.