Bernard Safran
Bernard began studying art at the age of eight and went on to attend New York's High School of Music and Art before graduating from Pratt Institute. Following his service in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during World War II, he worked as a commercial illustrator for a decade, creating book covers and magazine illustrations. Determined to refine his craft, he spent months studying and copying the works of the Old Masters at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, developing the rich painting technique that would become his signature.
From 1957 to 1966, Bernard painted portrait covers for TIME magazine, earning national recognition during the publication's celebrated "golden age" of illustrated covers. His subjects included world leaders, cultural icons, and historical figures, establishing him as one of America's foremost portrait painters.
After leaving TIME, Bernard devoted himself to fine art, painting portraits as well as powerful scenes of urban and rural life. His work reflected a deep compassion for ordinary people and a remarkable ability to capture both the dignity and complexity of the human experience.
Bernard left behind an extraordinary artistic legacy, including more than 250 paintings, over 175 drawings, and thousands of photographs. His work continues to be celebrated for its technical mastery, emotional depth, and enduring portrayal of everyday life. To view more of Bernard’s work, you can visit his website.
