September 14, 2014. Western Head, N.S. Bernard.

Bernard spent almost three hours this afternoon telling us about his work. Martha, before she retired, worked as an Occupational Therapist and for six years after that taught art in an elementary school. In addition, she is clever with art and crafts so after seeing and hearing of Bernie, she asked to meet him and see his work. Rita and Martha and I visited him today. He was as enthusiastic and gracious as ever. In fact, I think he was thrilled that Martha was interested in the details of his craft projects, especially when she took pictures and asked questions. I am always impressed with the breadth of his work. His painting styles are different and all beautiful. He is in the process of making the wings of his 25 seagulls longer. They are made from paper mache and hang from the ceiling of his living room. His goal is to fill his whole house with his crafts. Then he might consider selling some of his cats and birds. He will sell his paintings but he is not selling his crafts. They keep him company. He is a remarkable man. At 81, he is active and energetic and is as much in love with his art as ever. We spoke with another fine artist last week who has stopped painting because he can not sell what he wants to paint. Bernard does not care. He does exactly what he wishes to do at any time. And he has scores more ideas in his brain, said he. "Not Weary Yet", must be his motto. The best part today was that he has been thinking hard about the trombone painting for my brother Dave. Bernard does have a good memory!!