close-up Archives - Teresa Bernard Oil Paintings

July 1, 2024January 31, 2026

The Monarch Butterfly

A Monarch butterfly, a single bloom, and a painting that captures nature’s beauty.

6x6 oil painting of a Monarch butterfly perched on an orange flower against a soft sky‑blue background — The Monarch Butterfly is an insect painting by Teresa Bernard © Copyright 2019 – Present

Centered and composed with care, a Monarch butterfly anchors the scene in vivid orange and black, its stillness echoed by the soft blue that surrounds it.

$156

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Details & Highlights

“The Monarch Butterfly” portrays a respectful, realistic portrayal that invites closer observation and quiet appreciation of insects. It stands as a quiet tribute to the beauty and precision found in the natural world. Teresa Bernard’s decades of realism work give this butterfly a steady, assured presence.

Title: The Monarch Butterfly
Theme: Insects
Year Completed: 2019
Dimensions: 6″ w x 6″ h x .5″ d
Medium: Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
Style & Technique: Realism, layered brushwork
Originality: One‑of‑a‑kind painting, signed on the front
Framing: Unframed, so you can personalize it your way
Certificate of Authenticity: Customized, hand‑signed and stamped with the artist’s personal embossed seal
Provenance: Direct from the artist’s studio

Additional Views

About This Painting

With wings lifted high, a Monarch butterfly clings to an orange flower, drawn by the promise of nectar.

A Monarch butterfly rests atop a vivid orange flower, wings stretched upward in bold contrast against a soft sky-blue background. The butterfly’s wings display rich orange fields bordered by black veins and white spots, rendered with precision and clarity. Petals curve upward beneath the insect’s body, their saturated orange tones echoing the butterfly’s warmth. The composition is centered and balanced, with the flower anchoring the lower half and the butterfly’s wings extending outward. Signed in the lower left corner by artist Teresa Bernard, the mark affirms the work’s originality and authorship.

Painted in oil on gallery-wrapped canvas, the artwork measures 6″ wide by 6″ high and 0.5″ deep. The image wraps around the canvas edges, giving it a clean, modern presentation without the need for framing. It arrives unframed, making it easy to adapt to your unique tastes, interior decor, and framing choice. A Certificate of Authenticity is included, hand-signed by Teresa and embossed with her personal seal. The COA provides authenticity, provenance, and lasting value—details of interest to art enthusiasts and collectors.

“The Monarch Butterfly” reflects the distinctive spirit that defines the collection. Shaped by Teresa’s signature realistic style, it offers a quiet moment of natural beauty and visual clarity. Whether displayed alone or alongside companion pieces, it’s an ideal choice for nature lovers or anyone seeking an artwork with lasting emotional and visual impact.

©️ teresabernardart.com is a copyright watermark and is used only on online. It does not appear on the original canvas artwork.

Artist Reflections

I’ve always found the insect world fascinating—so many shapes, colors, and functions, each one designed with intention. The Monarch butterfly is one of the more beautiful ones, and when I saw it land briefly on this orange flower, I knew I wanted to capture that moment. It wasn’t just the color or the composition—it was the sense of purpose in something so delicate. God created even the smallest creatures with care, and this painting is my way of honoring that.

—Teresa Bernard, oil painter

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June 7, 2024January 31, 2026

King Protea Flower

Fresh from Africa’s garden—this King Protea Flower painting blooms with calm confidence.

6x6 oil painting of a King Protea bloom against a soft blue background — King Protea Flower, an oil painting by Teresa Bernard © Copyright 2020 – Present

A delicate King Protea bloom unfolds in rich detail, framed by soft leaves and a sky-blue backdrop.

$156

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Details & Highlights

A quiet radiance moves through this protea, its presence both grounded and quietly commanding. Its natural grandeur comes forward with a clear, confident energy, offering a moment shaped by soft light and subtle strength. Teresa Bernard brings years of realism experience to the subtle balance that gives “King Protea Flower” its stately presence.

Title: King Protea Flower
Series: Adventures in Africa
Year Completed: 2020
Dimensions: 6″ w x 6″ h x .5″ d
Medium: Oil on gallery-wrap canvas
Style & Technique: Realism, layered brushwork
Originality: One‑of‑a‑kind painting, signed on the front
Framing: Unframed, so you can personalize it your way
Certificate of Authenticity: Customized, hand‑signed and stamped with the artist’s personal embossed seal
Provenance: Direct from the artist’s studio

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About This Painting

Grace in full bloom—bold, sculpted, unapologetically beautiful.

A radiant King Protea blossom takes center stage in this striking oil painting, its creamy white petals unfolding within a lush crown of broad green leaves. Set against a soft sky-blue background, the composition evokes a serene, sunlit moment in nature. Though realistic in style, the close-up perspective adds a touch of drama to this regal bloom—long celebrated as a symbol of strength and transformation. Painted by fine artist Teresa Bernard, this one-of-a-kind piece bears her signature in the lower right corner, affirming its authenticity and originality.

Expertly rendered on a 6″ x 6″ gallery-wrapped canvas, the artwork features edge-to-edge painting that continues seamlessly around the sides. This means framing is optional—its contemporary presentation stands beautifully on its own or can be tailored to suit your personal décor. The painting arrives unframed and includes a signed Certificate of Authenticity, making it an ideal addition to small spaces or intimate collections.

This artwork belongs to Teresa’s acclaimed Adventures in Africa Series, a curated collection that honors the quiet majesty and symbolic depth of native African flora. Whether displayed in a cozy nook, office setting, or gallery wall, the King Protea Flower painting brings a touch of natural grace and timeless presence to your space.

©️ teresabernardart.com is a copyright watermark and is used only on online. It does not appear on the original canvas artwork.

Read more about the Adventures in Africa Series.

Artist Reflections

I love flowers! Their quiet strength, ever-changing beauty, and the way sunlight dances across their petals always captivate me. Capturing those details up close is one of my favorite ways to paint. There’s something intimate and revealing about zooming in on a bloom. That closeup view invites us to pause and truly see what’s often overlooked.

The King Protea flower drew me in the moment I saw it. With its grand, sculptural blossom and bold foliage, it felt like royalty in bloom. It carries a certain majesty, but there’s also a softness to it, especially when bathed in warm light. That contrast—the regal presence paired with natural grace—inspired me deeply and made it a perfect subject for this painting.

—Teresa Bernard, oil painter

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May 17, 2024January 30, 2026

Bow of the Boat

Timeless and meditative, this painting draws the viewer into the heart of a boat—just the bow, wooden and weathered, suspended in light.

18x18 oil painting of a wooden boat’s bow angled diagonally above still water with warm light and shadow — Bow of the Boat painting by Teresa Bernard © Copyright 2021 – Present

Just the bow—wooden and timeworn—rests in a pool of shadow and light in this painting. The restrained composition shifts focus to the subtle interplay of tone and texture, revealing beauty in what is left unseen.

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Details & Highlights

A quiet stillness settles over the water, creating an intimate moment of nearness and calm. “Bow of the Boat” leans into that closeness, where the vessel’s forward edge meets the stillness without distraction. Teresa Bernard’s lifelong experience in realism brings a quiet focus to simple, grounded subjects.

Title: Bow of the Boat
Theme: Boats
Dimensions: 18″ w x 18″ h x 1.5″ d
Year Completed: 2021
Medium: Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
Style & Technique: Realism, layered brushwork
Originality: One‑of‑a‑kind painting, signed on the front
Framing: Unframed, so you can personalize it your way
Certificate of Authenticity: Customized, hand‑signed and stamped with the artist’s personal embossed seal
Provenance: Direct from the artist’s studio

About This Painting

A large oil painting captures the bow of a wooden boat in a tightly cropped composition. Deliberate brushstrokes enhance the geometry and emphasize the quiet focus of the scene.

An original oil painting showcases the bow of a weathered wooden boat, closely cropped to draw attention to its texture and form. Angled diagonally into the scene, the vessel is framed by light and shadow that accentuate the warmth of aged wood and the cool tones of still water below. Sunlight grazes the boat’s forward edge, casting deep, angular shadows across the calm surface. Each brushstroke is placed with care to enhance tonal harmony and realism. Artist Teresa Bernard signs the piece in the lower-left corner.

Composed on an 18×18-inch gallery-wrapped canvas that is 1.5 inches deep, the painting is stretched across sturdy wooden stretcher bars. The scene continues cleanly around all edges, making it suitable for display with or without a frame. Completed in 2021, the artwork is accompanied by a customized Certificate of Authenticity hand-signed and stamped with Teresa’s personal embossed seal to guarantee its originality.

“Bow of the Boat” exemplifies Teresa’s gift for finding elegance in simplicity. This painting speaks to those who appreciate tranquility, craftsmanship, and the art of subtle storytelling. It invites a quiet pause and an emotional connection through the realism of its execution. Whether displayed as a standalone piece or paired with others from the series, it offers timeless beauty and compositional strength.

The copyright watermark ©️ teresabernardart.com is not on the actual canvas artwork.

Artist Reflections

In a world dominated by modern materials, a traditional wooden boat stands as a quiet testament to craftsmanship and timelessness. That sense of enduring beauty is what drew me to this subject.

Artists often find inspiration through others, and ‘Bow of the Boat’ traces back to one of my early art teachers—a mentor whose love for painting boats quietly left its mark on me. I remember how he would often isolate just one section of the vessel, cropping away the rest to highlight the unique lines and textures. That concept stayed with me, and I’ve carried it forward here, focusing only on the bow. I wanted to spotlight its warm wood tones and the way sunlight grazes across its surface, allowing the boat to speak for itself through thoughtful composition and evocative light.

This piece is part of the Boat Series, which explores the quiet elegance found in everyday nautical forms. With this painting, I aim to create a moment of pause—one that encourages viewers to look closer, reflect deeper, and feel something familiar yet unexpected.

—Teresa Bernard, oil painting

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May 16, 2024January 30, 2026

Eye of the Zebra

A zebra painting in close focus—this artwork captures quiet strength, bold contrast, and the meditative stillness of a single gaze.

9x12 oil painting of a zebra’s face in close‑up with its expressive eye centered among black and white stripes — Eye of the Zebra is an African wildlife painting by Teresa Bernard © Copyright 2021 – Present

Framed in black and white, a zebra’s eye becomes the quiet focal point of this tight composition.

$273

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Details & Highlights

The zebra’s gaze holds the viewer gently, a moment suspended in pattern and instinct. “Eye of the Zebra” offers not just an image, but a presence—alert, enduring, and quietly beautiful. Teresa Bernard’s long experience in realism brings a calm, attentive touch to this zebra painting.

Title: Eye of the Zebra
Series: Adventures in Africa
Year Completed: 2021
Dimensions: 9″ w x 12″ h
Medium: Oil on canvas board
Style & Technique: Realism, layered brushwork
Originality: One‑of‑a‑kind painting, signed on the front
Framing: Unframed, so you can personalize it your way
Certificate of Authenticity: Customized, hand‑signed and stamped with the artist’s personal embossed seal
Provenance: Direct from the artist’s studio

About This Painting

Amid bold black and white, the eye of a zebra holds quiet focus. Its steady gaze anchors the scene in calm and clarity.

A close-up view of a zebra’s face fills the canvas, cropped tightly to emphasize the animal’s expressive eye at center. Black and white stripes curve rhythmically across the surface, creating contrast and movement around the calm, steady gaze. The eye is soft and reflective, with a quiet depth that invites a moment of connection. The texture of the fur is subtly rendered, with soft tonal shifts that suggest depth and dimension. Signed in the lower left corner, Teresa Bernard’s mark ensures originality and authorship.

Painted in oil on a sturdy 9×12-inch canvas board, the surface is smooth and archival—built for longevity and clarity of detail. The artwork arrives unframed—ideal for customizing to suit your space and style. A hand-signed Certificate of Authenticity accompanies the painting, embossed with Teresa’s personal seal. This document guarantees provenance, genuineness, and lasting value for collectors and art lovers alike.

Part of the Adventures in Africa Series, this painting reflects the quiet strength and natural presence that runs throughout the collection. Shaped by Teresa’s signature realistic style, the zebra’s portrait offers a moment of stillness and visual clarity. Bold yet intimate, this original artwork brings a touch of the wild into everyday space—ideal for collectors, nature lovers, or anyone drawn to the quiet dignity of African wildlife.

The copyright watermark ©️ teresabernardart.com is not on the actual canvas artwork.

Read more about the Adventures in Africa Series.

Artist Reflections

Zebras have always intrigued me—their bold black-and-white stripes, so graphic and rhythmic, yet completely organic. Each one carries a pattern as unique as a fingerprint, and that individuality fascinates me. In ‘Eye of the Zebra,’ I wanted to move in close, to let the viewer linger with a single gaze. The eye is soft, steady, and quietly expressive—framed by contrast, but not overwhelmed by it.

There’s something meditative about painting an animal this way. You’re not just capturing a likeness; you’re listening for presence. I wasn’t thinking about a safari or a sweeping landscape this time—I was thinking about stillness, about how a single moment can hold the weight of instinct and calm. This painting is part of my ongoing interest in African subjects, but it stands on its own: intimate, restrained, and quietly powerful.

—Teresa Bernard, oil painter

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May 8, 2024January 31, 2026

Ladybug #2 – Almost Perfect Camouflage

A ladybug rests in stillness—this oil painting captures the delicate balance between visibility, protection, and quiet beauty.

6x6 oil painting of a red ladybug perched on flower petals that match its color — Ladybug #2 – Almost Perfect Camouflage, an oil painting by Teresa Bernard © Copyright 2016 – Present

A ladybug’s glossy shell echoes the flower’s hue, creating a moment of near invisibility shaped by softness and subtle contrast.

$156

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Details & Highlights

In a moment of stillness, nature reveals its quiet genius—where color becomes concealment and form invites a second glance. “Ladybug #2 – Almost Perfect Camouflage” invites the viewer to pause, observe, and consider how life preserves itself through quiet beauty. Teresa Bernard’s lifelong dedication to realism brings this small insect a clarity that feels quietly earned.

Title: Ladybug #2 – Almost Perfect Camouflage
Theme: Insects
Year Completed: 2016
Dimensions: 6″ w x 6″ h x .5″ d
Medium: Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
Style & Technique: Realism, layered brushwork
Originality: One‑of‑a‑kind painting, signed on the front
Framing: Unframed, so you can personalize it your way
Certificate of Authenticity: Customized, hand‑signed and stamped with the artist’s personal embossed seal
Provenance: Direct from the artist’s studio

Additional Views

About This Painting

Red on red, the ladybug settles into the flower’s embrace—nearly hidden, yet unmistakably present.

Delicate petals cradle a red ladybug whose domed shell mirrors the flower’s color, creating a subtle camouflage effect. The insect’s domed shell gleams with subtle highlights, while its black spots punctuate the surface with crisp contrast. Petal edges curve gently beneath the ladybug’s feet, suggesting softness and depth. The background remains tight and intimate, keeping focus on the insect’s near-perfect disguise. Signed by the artist Teresa Bernard on the lower left corner, the mark ensures originality and authorship.

Painted in oil on a gallery-wrapped canvas, the artwork measures 6×6 inches. Its composition continues around the edges, allowing for display without a frame. Delivered unframed, it’s easy to tailor to your personal style and room décor. A customized Certificate of Authenticity accompanies the painting, hand-signed by Teresa and embossed with her personal seal. This document ensures authenticity, provenance, and lasting value.

“Ladybug #2 – Almost Perfect Camouflage” captures the distinctive spirit that defines the collection. The composition is shaped by Teresa’s signature realistic style, honoring the quiet intricacy of nature. Ideal for collectors, entomology enthusiasts, or anyone drawn to the beauty of small things, this original painting offers both visual impact and enduring value.

The copyright watermark ©️ teresabernardart.com is used exclusively for online purposes and does not appear on the original canvas artwork.

Artist Reflections

Ladybugs are everywhere—on windowsills, in gardens, tucked into childhood memories. But what caught my attention here wasn’t nostalgia. It was the way this one nearly vanished into the flower beneath it. Red on red. A quiet trick of survival. That kind of camouflage isn’t accidental—it’s deliberate, designed, and worth noticing.

I chose this composition because it challenges the viewer to slow down. To look twice. There’s no dramatic gesture, no exaggerated contrast. Just a small insect doing what it was made to do: preserve its life by blending in. That tension between visibility and protection is what made me want to paint it.

This is the second ladybug oil painting in my Insect Art Series. I’m drawn to subjects like this—familiar, but not simple. They hold still long enough to be seen, but only if you’re paying attention.

—Teresa Bernard, oil painter

The Legend of the Ladybug

Centuries ago, European farmers watched helplessly as pests devoured their crops. In their desperation, they turned to prayer—asking the Virgin Mary, the Blessed Lady, for protection. Not long after, small red-and-black beetles began appearing in their fields, feeding on the destructive insects. The crops recovered, and the farmers saw it as a sign.

They began calling the beetles “the beetles of Our Lady.” Over time, the name softened into “ladybug.” The red shell represented Mary’s cloak, and the black spots her sorrows. It’s a quiet legend, passed down through generations, linking a humble garden insect to a story of hope and provision.

Buy the Complete Ladybug Series

Collect Both!

Each painting in the series stands alone, yet together they create a cohesive visual statement—designed to complement one another and enrich any room with layered visual interest. You may purchase the complete set below or explore each piece individually.

View the Full Series:

buy insect art — Ladybug #1 – Hanging on Tight (2016)
6″ w x 6″ h

shop for insect art — Ladybug #2 – Almost Perfect Camouflage (2016) 6″ w x 6″ h

Complete Series Price:

$297

a savings of $15 when purchased together
(FREE shipping and handling within the U.S.A.)

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May 7, 2024January 31, 2026

Ladybug #1 – Hanging on Tight

A painting of a ladybug holding tight—simple, focused, and full of quiet strength.

6x6 oil painting of a red ladybug clinging to a leafy green branch against a light background — Ladybug #1 – Hanging on Tight, an insect painting by Teresa Bernard © Copyright 2016 – Present

Hanging beneath a narrow branch, a red ladybug becomes the focal point of a quiet, deliberate composition.

$156

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Details & Highlights

A ladybug holds firm against the pull of gravity. Its posture suggests effort and intention, drawing the viewer’s eye to the way it steadies itself on the branch. “Ladybug #1 – Hanging on Tight” speaks to the beauty of holding on, even when the world tilts and shifts around us. Teresa Bernard’s long practice in realism lends this tiny subject its gentle sense of resolve.

Title: Ladybug #1 – Hanging on Tight
Theme: Insects
Year Completed: 2016
Dimensions: 6″ w x 6″ h x .5″ d
Medium: Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
Style & Technique: Realism, layered brushwork
Originality: One‑of‑a‑kind painting, signed on the front
Framing: Unframed, so you can personalize it your way
Certificate of Authenticity: Customized, hand‑signed and stamped with the artist’s personal embossed seal
Provenance: Direct from the artist’s studio

Additional Views

About This Painting

One insect. One branch. And the quiet resolve of hanging on tight.

A vivid red ladybug clings to a leafy green branch, its tiny legs grasping the stem with delicate precision and tension. The insect’s domed shell gleams with subtle highlights, punctuated by black spots that contrast against the saturated red. The branch angles diagonally across the canvas, covered in small green leaves with visible veins and soft gradients of color. Background tones are light and cheerful, suggesting daylight without depicting a defined sky or setting. Signed by the artist Teresa Bernard in the bottom left corner, the mark confirms originality and authorship.

Painted in oil on a 6 x 6-inch gallery-wrapped canvas. Its compact size makes it ideal for small spaces or intimate displays. The composition extends around the edges for a clean, finished look, so framing isn’t required unless you prefer it. It arrives unframed—perfect for tailoring to your personal taste and space. A Certificate of Authenticity is included, hand-signed by Teresa and embossed with her personal seal. The COA ensures authenticity, provenance, and lasting value.

“Ladybug #1 – Hanging on Tight” captures the quiet charm and resilience of one of nature’s smallest creatures. The piece reflects the distinctive spirit that defines the collection, shaped by Teresa’s signature realistic style. Whether displayed in a child’s room, a nature-themed space, or a personal gallery, it brings color, warmth, and craftsmanship to any wall.

©️ teresabernardart.com is a copyright watermark and is used exclusively online. It is not on the physical canvas artwork.

Artist Reflections

I’ve always had a fondness for ladybugs. They’re beautiful in their own right—bright red, speckled, tiny—but they’re also useful. They earn their keep in the garden, taking care of aphids and other pests without asking for attention. I admire that kind of quiet contribution.

This ladybug painting came from noticing one in a moment of effort—clinging to the underside of a branch, legs taut, body suspended. It wasn’t dramatic, but it struck me. That small act of holding on felt familiar. We all do it, in one way or another, especially when life tilts and shifts around us.

I didn’t paint this to make a statement. I painted it because it felt true. Ladybugs may be small, sometimes even a nuisance when they swarm indoors, but they’re part of the balance. Necessary. Designed. Worth noticing.

—Teresa Bernard, oil painter

Now About the Ladybugs!

Ladybugs—also known as ladybeetles or ladybird beetles—are tiny, bright, and surprisingly useful. Their red, orange, or yellow shells aren’t just pretty; they’re nature’s warning sign to birds: “Don’t eat me—I taste terrible.” Some wear spots, some stripes, and some go without markings at all. Their colors fade as they age, but their purpose stays the same.

There are over 6,000 species of ladybugs, and most of them are hard at work in gardens and fields, feasting on aphids and other pests. They’re the kind of insect you want around—quiet helpers that keep plants healthy without fanfare.

Their life cycle is a four-part transformation: egg, larva, pupa, adult. A single female can lay up to 1,000 eggs in a season, and within days, the next generation begins. Tiny, persistent, and beautifully designed; ladybugs are one of nature’s small wonders.

Buy the Complete Ladybug Series

Collect Both!

View the Full Series:

Complete Series Price:

$297

a savings of $15 when purchased together
(FREE shipping and handling within the U.S.A.)

Secure Checkout via PayPal

Have a Question?

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May 6, 2024January 30, 2026

Sunflower From Behind

A sunflower painting that captures joy from an unexpected angle.

20x16 oil painting of a sunflower viewed from behind against a sky‑blue background — Sunflower From Behind—painting by Teresa Bernard © Copyright 2016 – Present

This original sunflower painting offers a rare view from behind the blossom, where delicate textures meet bold optimism.

$468

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Details & Highlights

A sunflower turns gently away, offering a calm glimpse of beauty found in quieter angles. Its presence feels steady and unhurried, shaped with a lifelike sensitivity Teresa Bernard brings to her work. With decades of experience in fine‑art realism, she lends a practiced eye to the quiet strength that defines “Sunflower from Behind.”

Title: Sunflower From Behind
Theme: Wildflowers
Year Completed: 2016
Dimensions: 20″ w x 16″ h x 1.5″ d
Medium: Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
Style & Technique: Realism, layered brushwork
Originality: One‑of‑a‑kind painting, signed on the front
Framing: Unframed, so you can personalize it your way
Certificate of Authenticity: Customized, hand‑signed and stamped with the artist’s personal embossed seal
Provenance: Direct from the artist’s studio

About This Painting

A sunflower is quietly portrayed from behind in this oil on canvas composition. Known for its cheerful spirit, the bloom is a meditative symbol of hope and warmth.

A bold sunflower turns away from the viewer, revealing the quiet beauty often hidden behind the bloom. In this original oil painting, the vibrant yellow petals are rendered with intricate detail, each brushstroke echoing the natural rhythm of the flower as it rises toward a sky-blue background. The textured involucral bracts at the base of the blossom add depth and realism, grounding the composition in organic structure. By choosing to portray the sunflower from behind, the painting offers a fresh perspective on a classic symbol of joy and optimism—one that speaks gently of resilience and the grace found in subtle angles.

“Sunflower From Behind” is part of a theme that captures the spirit and serenity of native blooms through fine oil painting. This piece is composed by hand using oil paints on a professional-quality gallery-wrapped canvas that measures 20 inches wide by 16 inches high and 1.5 inches deep. It arrives unframed, offering flexibility for personalized display, and is signed on the front lower left corner. A hand-signed Certificate of Authenticity accompanies the painting to verify its originality and provenance.

This unique sunflower painting invites the viewer to pause and reconsider how beauty reveals itself—sometimes not in bold displays, but in the quiet turning away. Whether displayed on its own or paired with complementary works from the series, it brings an uplifting presence to any space.

The copyright watermark ©️ teresabernardart.com is solely for online use and is not present on the original canvas artwork.

Artist Reflections

I’ve always been drawn to the quiet honesty in this pose—the way the sunflower turns away, not to hide, but to rise toward the light. Painting it from behind felt meaningful, like capturing a quiet act of devotion. There’s such reverence in the way sunflowers grow, always seeking the sun—always reaching upward with purpose. It’s no wonder they’ve become symbols of faith, loyalty, and longevity.

This composition allowed me to explore those themes in a gentle way. The upward lift of the petals, the soft curve of the stem, and that brilliant contrast against the sky—it all came together in a way that felt both grounded and spiritual. I didn’t want the painting to shout; I wanted it to speak softly, like a prayer in motion.

—Teresa Bernard, oil painter

Comments from Art Lovers

“Nice work! Amazing realism.” — Mad Hedgehog, Rural Life, Gab

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May 5, 2024January 31, 2026

Texas Horned Lizard (a.k.a. Horny Toad)

A rugged icon of west Texas, the horned lizard holds quiet dignity in this original painting.

6x6 oil painting of a Texas horned lizard resting against a soft neutral background — Texas Horned Lizard is a native wildlife painting by Teresa Bernard © Copyright 2018 – Present

Still and solitary, the Texas Horned Lizard holds its ground against soft neutral tones—its spiny form sharply rendered, its gaze alert and steady.

$156

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Details & Highlights

A quiet creature of west Texas, rendered with precision and sensitivity. This little horny toad makes a big impression—rugged, regional, and instantly familiar to anyone who’s walked Texas soil. Captured in oil with clarity and restraint, “Texas Horned Lizard” reflects the steady realism Teresa Bernard has refined over many years at the easel.

Title: Texas Horned Lizard (a.k.a. Horny Toad)
Series: Life in Texas
Year Completed: 2018
Dimensions: 6″ w x 6″ h x .5″ d
Medium: Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
Style & Technique: Realism, layered brushwork
Originality: One‑of‑a‑kind painting, signed on the front
Framing: Unframed, so you can personalize it your way
Certificate of Authenticity: Customized, hand‑signed and stamped with the artist’s personal embossed seal
Provenance: Direct from the artist’s studio

Additional Views

About This Painting

Set against a quiet field of soft neutrals, a lone horny toad holds its ground—textured, alert, and unmistakably at home.

A Texas Horned Lizard rests in sharp focus against a soft, neutral background with subtle tonal variation. Its textured skin is rendered in earthy browns and muted grays, with spiny ridges and angular limbs crisply defined. The creature’s gaze is alert, its body angled slightly forward, giving a sense of quiet presence. This painting is signed by Teresa Bernard in the lower left corner. The mark ensures originality and authorship.

Painted in oil on gallery-wrapped canvas, the artwork measures 6″ wide by 6″ high. The canvas edges are painted, allowing for display with or without a frame. It arrives unframed, allowing for tailoring to your personal style and decor. A customized Certificate of Authenticity is included, hand-signed by Teresa and embossed with her personal seal. It ensures genuineness, provenance, and lasting value.

Part of the Life in Texas Series, the piece captures the distinctive spirit that defines the collection. Native wildlife is honored through close observation and careful rendering, shaped by Teresa’s signature realistic style. Ideal for collectors, nature lovers, or anyone drawn to the quiet dignity of desert life, this original painting offers lasting visual and emotional impact.

Read more about the Life in Texas Series here.

Artist Reflections

Painting the Texas Horned Lizard—or “horny toad,” as we called them growing up in west Texas—was a joy that brought back a flood of childhood memories. Back then, these little spiked critters were everywhere. My friends and I would spot them often, scoop them up to play for a while, then gently let them go. They were just part of the landscape, as familiar as mesquite trees and dusty roads.

As an adult, I’ve noticed they’re not nearly as common. That got me wondering why, so I did a little digging.

In Search of the Horny Toad

Turns out, about 70% of the Texas Horned Lizard’s diet consists of harvester ants. Over the years, their numbers have dropped by roughly 30%, largely due to pesticide use and the spread of invasive fire ants. Both wipe out harvester ant colonies, leaving the lizards without their primary food source. Today, the Texas horned lizard is a protected species. In Texas, it’s illegal to take, possess, transport, or sell them without a special permit.

Still, there’s hope. I was encouraged to read that efforts are underway to help them recover.

According to the August/September 2018 issue of Texas Parks & Wildlife magazine:

“Texas Horned Lizards once occurred throughout Texas, but now only a few populations remain. Efforts to move Texas horned lizards from one location in Texas to another, with the hope of establishing new self-sustaining populations in previously occupied habitats, are underway. Several Texas zoos are also working to develop colonies for reintroduction programs. RAWA (Recovering America’s Wildlife Act) funding would pay for “lizard factories” to help with reintroduction efforts.”

I shared some of my findings on social media, and the responses surprised me.

One longtime friend told me her small Texas town hosts an annual horny toad celebration called ‘The Old Rip Festival.’ It’s named after a legendary lizard said to have survived 31 years sealed inside a cornerstone. She even sent me a link to the ‘Texas Parks & Wildlife Magazine’ website, which dives into the lore and legacy of Old Rip.

Another follower chimed in, saying, “You still see these in west Texas and the Panhandle. Fire ants haven’t taken over every inch of ground as they have here, and harvester ants are still there, so that helps with the “horny toads.” Hope they make a comeback here someday.”

—Teresa Bernard, oil painter

Comments from Art Lovers

“Interesting, so beautiful..” — @andybaldwin, MeWe

“I love these little critters and my sis-in-law is seeing them in all stages on her ranch in Mathis..come on little dudes, make a comeback.” — @Char78613, Gab

“We have a similar lizard here, the Eastern Fence lizard, where I live.” –@adamcharleshovey, MeWe

“It is amazing how you are able to convey the “spiky” nature of the lizard through your clever use of brushing to create the spikes and rough/harsh texture of the skin of the animal.” — @TheBlackHeart, Gab

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May 4, 2024January 31, 2026

Red and White Cosmos Flowers

A charming cosmos flowers painting that brings bold color and warmth to any room.

Three delicate blooms—one crimson, two ivory—stand proud against a backdrop of gold, inviting warmth into any corner of your world.

$182

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Details & Highlights

“Red and White Cosmos Flowers” centers on the quiet harmony of contrast—warm tones, simple forms, and the gentle balance that emerges when color and stillness meet. The clarity and balance in this arrangement reflect the many years Teresa Bernard has spent refining her realism with steady, attentive practice.

Title: Red and White Cosmos Flowers
Theme: Flowers in a Vase
Year Completed: 2023
Dimensions: 6″ w x 8″ h x 1.5″ d
Medium: Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
Style & Technique: Realism, layered brushwork
Originality: One‑of‑a‑kind painting, signed on the front
Framing: Unframed, so you can personalize it your way
Certificate of Authenticity: Customized, hand‑signed and stamped with the artist’s personal embossed seal
Provenance: Direct from the artist’s studio

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About This Painting

This striking composition of red and white cosmos flowers captivates with its rich color and unique simplicity.

This vibrant oil painting features a trio of cosmos flowers—one deep red and two crisp white—each delicately arranged in petite vases atop a rustic brown tabletop. The glowing orange background bathes the scene in warmth, creating a striking contrast that draws the eye to the soft, fluttering petals. The composition is intimate yet bold, capturing the quiet charm and natural elegance of these garden favorites.

“Red and White Cosmos Flowers” is painted on a 6×8-inch gallery-wrapped canvas. The image continues around the edges for a clean, frameless presentation. It can also be custom framed to suit your space. Executed in a realistic style, the piece is signed on the front and comes with a hand-signed Certificate of Authenticity embossed with the artist’s seal.

Whether displayed in a cozy nook, a sunlit hallway, or a curated gallery wall, this piece brings a joyful burst of color and serenity to any setting. Its modest size makes it perfect for small spaces, while its thoughtful composition ensures it leaves a lasting impression.

Artist Reflections

‘Red and White Cosmos Flowers’ is a quiet little painting with a cheerful heart. I wanted to capture the simple elegance of cosmos blooms—the kind you might pass by without a second thought, but that have a certain charm if you stop and look. I arranged them in two small vases, letting the shapes and colors play off each other in an easy, balanced composition.

The red and white petals were chosen deliberately—they contrast just enough to keep things visually interesting without overwhelming the senses. And the background? That was all about pulling everything together. The vivid tone sets the stage, lifting the flowers forward and giving them space to stand out. It’s a painting that doesn’t fuss or shout but quietly celebrates natural beauty in an everyday moment.

—Teresa Bernard, oil painter

Buy the Complete Flowers in a Vase Series

Collect Both!

View the Full Series:

flower still life paintings — Red and White Cosmos (2023)
6″ w x 8″ h

flower still life — White Poppies in a Vase (2022)
6″ w x 8″ h

Complete Series Price:

$349

a savings of $15 when purchased together
(FREE shipping and handling within the U.S.A.)

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April 20, 2024January 30, 2026

Tractor Tire

Rural presence shines through in this tractor tire painting, a tribute to the materials that shape countryside living.

The composition zooms in on a tractor tire’s worn tread, inviting the viewer to explore its texture and the subtle layers of country life that frame it.

$364

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Details & Highlights

“Tractor Tire” carries the grounded spirit of rural life — the kind shaped by long days, steady work, and tools that outlast the seasons. The close view turns this worn tire into a quiet emblem of farm living. Teresa Bernard draws on her decades of realism work to honor the humble strength of this everyday piece of equipment, capturing the calm endurance at the heart of country life.

Title: Tractor Tire
Theme: Country Living
Year Completed: 2016
Dimensions: 12″ w x 16″ h x 1.5″ d
Medium: Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
Style & Technique: Realism, layered brushwork
Originality: One‑of‑a‑kind painting, signed on the front
Framing: Unframed, so you can personalize it your way
Certificate of Authenticity: Customized, hand‑signed and stamped with the artist’s personal embossed seal
Provenance: Direct from the artist’s studio

About This Painting

A tightly cropped composition of a tractor tire is depicted in this painting. This unique artwork is ideal for anyone who enjoys life on the farm.

A tightly cropped view of a weathered tractor tire takes the spotlight, drawing attention to its worn tread and rustic texture. The rim bears the patina of rust, adding to the authentic feel of a tool shaped by time. In the background, a wooden plank floor offers contrast and depth, while the edge of a second tire quietly enters the frame. It’s an earthy, intimate portrayal that resonates with those who appreciate rural life or country-inspired décor.

This original artwork is hand-painted in oils on gallery-wrapped canvas. The composition extends around the edges, offering a modern, frameless presentation. The artist, Teresa Bernard, has signed the piece in the bottom left corner. It comes with a Certificate of Authenticity that is hand-signed and embossed with her personal seal. It arrives unframed, allowing you to tailor its presentation to your space and style.

“Tractor Tire” makes a strong impression. It serves as a conversation starter—whether displayed in a farmhouse, cabin, office, or any space that embraces rustic authenticity. Its grounded subject matter and close-up realism give it both character and timeless appeal.

The copyright watermark ©️ teresabernardart.com is used exclusively online and is not part of the physical canvas artwork’s composition.

Artist Reflections

Composing this tractor tire painting was a little bit of an experiment for me. I like to give myself challenges now and then. With this one, I set out to see if I could paint rubber and make it look like rubber. I believe I achieved that goal.

What I like best about this painting are the various textures present in the composition — the wood, the rubber, and even the rusted metal rim. It was an enjoyable challenge painting all those textures and getting them just right. In addition, there are warm colors that contrast against the cool ones. There are so many interesting things going on in this painting; it was a lot of fun to paint!

A tractor tire isn’t something most people imagine as the subject of a painting, yet here it is—center stage and full of personality. I can picture it hanging in a man cave, an office, or anywhere someone loves tractors, cars, or just the gritty charm of rural life.

—Teresa Bernard, oil painter

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