Roland J. Bernier, Jr.

Roland was born in Providence, RI to Eleanor (Greco) and Roland Bernier Sr. He served in the Air Force from 1950 to 1954, stationed one of those years in Korea. While at Bergstrom Air Force Base in Austin, TX, he married Myrna Crawford with whom he had a child, Roland III. After completing his military service, Roland attended the University of Texas where he received a Bachelor's degree and then attended the University of Southern California receiving a Masters of Fine Arts. They returned to TX where he taught at the University of Houston and some classes at the Museum of Fine Arts. They divorced in the early 60's and in 1966, Roland moved to NYC to pursue his artistic interests. He taught senior citizens at the Sirovich Center from 1967 to 1972 where he met his current wife, Marilyn. They moved to Baltimore for a year and then to Denver. Roland was hired by the City and County of Denver where he taught art at the recreation centers for senior citizens. He continued pursuing his own work and after retiring from the city continued full-time in his own studio. His work was shown at the Mary Mackey Gallery, Hassel-Haeseler Gallery, Robischon Gallery, Spark Gallery, and Walker Fine Art which currently represents his work. He also exhibited in various venues in the United States. Roland is best known for his use of words in art. In 2001, the Denver Art Museum exhibited his work in a show curated by the late Nancy Tieken. One of those pieces (""Wall of Words"") was later purchased by the Colorado Convention Center and now hangs where the Blue Bear looks into the lobby space. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, and son Roland III (Yanina), Houston, TX and two grandchildren, Julian and Richard, plus a number of nieces, nephews, cousins and their children. Donations may be made in memory of Roland to an organization of the donor's choice. A celebration of his life will be held at Walker Fine Art at a later date. Please visit the Guestbook link to share memories of Roland with his family.