Organized by MSVU Art Gallery
Working out of his Cole Harbour studio, Projection Photo Graphics, and as an independent artist, photojournalist, and community volunteer, Bernard made remarkable contributions to the African Nova Scotian community archive. His studio portraits are a testament to the importance of self-representation; subjects radiate the confidence, warmth, and joy that comes from being truly seen. Over the decades, he documented protest marches, legislative assemblies, church and community gatherings, and visits by civil rights activist Minniejean Brown-Trickey, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Tina Turner, among others, creating an archive that attests to the power of collective action, community, faith, and dialogue.
As a graphic designer, illustrator and photographer, Bernard took on projects that helped advance the professional, artistic, social, and political pursuits of other Black Nova Scotians. He produced materials for the Nova Scotia Association of Black Social Workers, designed and illustrated the 1982 Black Business Directory, photographed the acappella group Four the Moment for their award-winning album, We’re Still Standing, and took family portraits of the congregants of the Victoria Road Baptist Church for their 145th Anniversary publication, among many other projects.
A prolific artist, Bernard also worked in pen and ink, watercolour, and acrylic, creating delicate, detailed renderings of historic Black churches, dramatic coastal landscapes, beloved family members, and quiet scenes of life in the townships.
Comprised of select photographs, paintings, drawings, objects, and print ephemera from George Bernard Jr.’s extensive body of work, Light & Legacy sheds light on the artist’s remarkable curiosity, kindness, and talent—and on his prescient awareness that a single moment of connection can have a lasting impact, particularly if it is documented, cherished, and shared. Bernard’s creative spirit and commitment to uplifting others remain central to the legacy he leaves behind.
This exhibition is accompanied by limited-edition print publication which includes an essay by award-winning filmmaker and writer Sylvia D. Hamilton.
Image: George Bernard Jr., Delmore ‘Buddy’ Daye, 1991, black and white archival print from digitized negative on paper, 27.9 x 35.6 cm. Image courtesy of the artist’s estate.
