Bernie Gillman 

Okanagan Dreamspinners

About Bernie:

My name is Bernie Gillman and I am officially retired so I can put a lot of focus into the Okanagan Dreamspinners. The process that I have developed to design and create my copper and crystalwind art, marrying a relaxing illusion with the warmth of copper & crystal, is so satisfying. I love when I getfeedback from clients who tell me they can unwind and forget about stress just tuning into the spinner’s movements. Each piece is handmade, all slightly different. I take raw copper sheeting, measure and cut pieces, round the corners; flatten them to make them smooth, balance, then drill a hole, and silver solder a washer for reinforcement. I then draw a design on each piece. I work the design by hand using special tools that I’ve developed to give some depth and detail. After that a complete polish on the buffing wheel twice to put a mirror finish on them. I colour them with heat. Followed by two coats of permalac, then embellish with Swarovski Crystal, wax each piece, balance again, attach UV resistant thread. That’s the end of the flasher. I take lengths of hardened copper rod and cut various lengths, polish them, bend them by hand and shape them into spirals, balance, then polish again, hook the spirals into the flasher, add crystal balls and done!

A Conversation with the Artist: 

Name: Bernie Gillham (Okanagan DreamSpinners)

Medium: Copper & Crystal

How long have you been doing art: 7 years

What got you originally interested in the art you do: The fun illusion and all possibilities.

What is something you have learned about yourself through your art: The creative process is healthy and good for your mind.

What do you enjoy most about your art: Making it and happy customers.

What is your favourite joke/quote: Optimist: daydreamer spelled more elegantly.

If you could teach everyone one art medium or method, what would it be and why: Do it.. it’s good for you!

What do you think makes art important: When one really stops & looks at it… It triggers the imagination and all possibilities.

What is something most people don’t know about you: I’m retired & hate golf.

Why are you a member of the Kamloops Arts Council: Happy to support my favourite group.

What are you looking forward to most in this upcoming year (A special project you’re working on): Hoping that the not too distant future will allow… Us to be safely together again.

For more information, or to purchase Bernie’s art, email him at @[email protected]

Contact info:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 778 476 1921