10. Fine Art: Visitors find themselves surrounded by the expressive creations of established and emerging artists alike. Delight in a sort of art-inspired treasure hunt as you wander the home and discover a bold painting by Peter Max, Chiparus’ exquisite sculptures that dance tango, a subtly suggestive work from Susannah Bettag and even a Yul Brynner original photograph featuring the iconic Audrey Hepburn. 

9. Personal Examples from the Art Instructor: Interspersed throughout VillaBerta, guests will find the homeowner’s own abstract works of art. Expressing herself through mixed media and monotype, contemporary artist Clara Berta uses personal mementos and eco-friendly organic materials as the defining components of her work. The artist integrates items such as bark, old photos, tea grounds, dried flowers and newspaper clippings and manipulates them through image transfers, texture and paint in a unique abstract expression – individualized techniques she both creates and teaches.

7. Nature: VillaBerta is nestled in an enclosed haven of overgrown rock walls.  Lush palms, orange trees, feather-light ferns and blossoms of purple, pink and white adorn the Studio City oasis. A regal magnolia steals the spotlight, gracefully twisting through time as it forms nature’s very own sculpture art out front, while a rustic, wooden trellis shelters the back patio. Turn your gaze toward the serene, turquoise pool and watch a radiant glow dance among the rippling water as it shimmers in the sunlight. Take pleasure in the soothing sense water has on the soul. Slowly inhale the sweet aroma of the crawling jasmine. For the more adventurous, meander further out into the back yard to discover the hidden Zen garden. Gather inspiration from the forms, textures and shades of nature surrounding you.

6. Berta Academy: Presently teach mixed media painting classes on Saturday’s 10-1 p.m. and starting January 2011 I will have a class on Wednesday evening's 7-10 p.m.  Once a month I hold Ladies Night In with wine/cheese and we have fun releasing our Inner Artist.  This takes place on the 3rd Thursday of the month and the next one will be on Thursday, Jan. 20th.  In the spring of 2011 I will be exhibiting a mixed media show of my students work.

5. Authentic Art Studio: Witness a space where art is born. The BertaArt studio is an open space that nurtures the imagination and sparks creative expression. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn from an accomplished artist – either through classes or a private lesson. Here, you have a clean slate, a blank canvas toward which you can direct your energy and release your emotions. Surrender to the moment. This is a safe environment without judgment. Relieve stress through the creative experience.

 4. Peer to Peer Inspiration: Draw upon the energy and excitement of fellow students as you share the VillaBerta art studio as a space for creation. Re-visit an old hobby or take this opportunity to try something new as you feed upon the ideas and energy of students around you. Art is about sharing – sharing ourselves and even the artwork itself. Make a one-of-kind gift for yourself, a friend or a loved one and pass on the inspiration. As you participate in the creative process, you will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for art and artists who make a living through the creative expression. Take your work to exhibit in local art shows, boutique galleries and coffee houses and meet other local artists working to creatively share a part of themselves with the world.

2. Aromatherapy: The sense of smell is a powerful tool. Smells can lead to a rumble of cravings in our bellies or can warn us of toxicity. They can jog old memories buried deep within our consciousness and even alter our moods. What do you want to feel while creating? Splash a little lavender on your wrists for a calming effect. Use a tad of orange for a bit of positive, energizing vigor. When we create, we are expressing all that we touch, hear, taste and see through a most unique perspective – our own.

 1. Your Inner Artist: As we absorb our surroundings and draw inspiration from the outside world, we cannot forget the most unique source of inspiration – YOU! Each one of us has a distinctive vision to share. Embrace your inner artist. Feel confident in knowing that anything you express and release is not only acceptable, but also beautiful. Let go… and discover your creative side.