Beth Kerner

As an abstract, mixed-media artist, I create works with a thoughtful combination of rope, paint, digital art, ocean water, and other natural and technical materials. My work is inspired by the utility, texture, color, and history of rope and the simplicity and beauty of the ocean and a small island near my home.

My granddaughter, Teagan and I, along with my other sidekick, Mr. Roadie Parker.

ARTIST IN TRANSITION

I began my journey with art as a child, Beth McCullough, practicing calligraphy, photography, and sketching in Longmeadow, MA. I attended the Lower Pioneer Valley Graphic Arts Trade School as a teen. I really enjoyed Graphic Arts training and continued at the college level, graduating from UMASS/Boston in 1986. My first professional job was for Camex, an emerging graphic design computer company. I traveled throughout the U.S. and Europe, training newspaper and retail designers on how to use the newly emerging graphic design computer systems. Trivia: I was fortunate to meet Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip while training the team at The London Daily Telegraph in 1988.

Since then, I’ve worked as an Art + Creative Director for global fashion brands such as Sperry Top-Sider, Rockport, RueLaLa, The Holland Companies, Keds, New Balance, and J.Jill. I’ve created everything from global magazine advertising, catalogs, brand logos, billboards, and packaging. I’ve overseen staff, fashion/editorial photoshoots, and designed full-building wraps for the 2012 London Olympics.

My loving husband of 28 years, Peter Kerner, passed away in 2014 after struggling with ALS for ten years. The disease took a toll on the family but we have persevered (we have five wonderful daughters, Addie and Skyler; and my step-daughters: Jenn; Heather; and Pipere). Peter was an avid sailor and introduced me to rope/line/sheets and knotting techniques while sailing together.

I’m transitioning from corporate creative work to building my own studio and creating mixed-media artwork. My unique love for rope began after studying its significant use and utility throughout world history and pre-historic times. Rope has distinctive textural properties and color ranges and can be used to create beautiful patterns. I also express my artistic style through my respect for the ocean, nature, and harmony between line, space, and negative space.

I pride myself on mentoring young artists and designers. My gallery sales will open in Fall/Winter 2023 and a portion of the profits will be donated to find a cure for ALS.