Sheldon Berkowitz
Sheldon Berkowitz is a pastel and watercolor painter who places a particular interest on reflective objects. The artist enjoys exploring the profound beauty found in ordinary objects, often depicting overlooked details which make his subjects extraordinary. He prefers articles that combine both glass and metal, such as seltzer bottles, inkwells, and antique doorknobs.
Berkowitz begins each painting with a pencil drawing on archival paper that has been dry mounted to acid free foam core. This sketch provides a loose composition. The artist then covers the drawing with three coats of diluted gesso with ground. Berkowitz paints the image with watercolor, providing himself a sort of color-guide. Finally, he renders a complete detailed oil pastel painting. Highlights and reflections come to the fore, making each piece feel immediate and alive.
click images to enlarge
Sheldon Berkowitz, "Lobster, Coral and Crystals,"
pastel over watercolor on paper, 36 x 47 inches, $18,500 (framed size: 45 x 56 inches)
Sheldon Berkowitz, "Cloisonne, Tortoise Shell, Crystal and Brass,"
pastel over watercolor on paper, 29.5 x 29.5 inches, $15,000 (framed size: 40 x 40 inches)
Sheldon Berkowitz, "Dodge 1956," pastel over watercolor on paper, 35 x 22.5 inches, $8,500 (framed size: 45 x 33 inches)
Sheldon Berkowitz, "Crystal, Brass, and Refracted Light,"
pastel over watercolor on paper, 28 x 39 inches, (framed size: 38 x 49 inches), $15,000
sold works & installation shots
click images to enlarge
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Sheldon Berkowitz was born in New York City in 1948.
Sheldon Berkowitz is a pastel and watercolor painter who places a particular interest on reflective objects. The artist enjoys exploring the profound beauty found in ordinary objects, often depicting overlooked details which make his subjects extraordinary. He prefers articles that combine both glass and metal, such as seltzer bottles, inkwells, and antique doorknobs.
Berkowitz begins each painting with a pencil drawing on archival paper that has been dry mounted to acid free foam core. This sketch provides a loose composition. The artist then covers the drawing with three coats of diluted gesso with ground. Berkowitz then paints the image with watercolor, providing himself a sort of color-guide. Finally, he renders a complete detailed oil pastel painting. Highlights and reflections come to the fore, making each piece feel immediate and alive.
© 2024 by Arden Gallery Ltd.